"Winning 29 seats from 11 seats in earlier election is a referendum of our policies in J&K"

Srinagar, Oct 31 (KNS): BJP National General Secretary Tarun Chugh Chugh framed the recent election results as an endorsement of the BJP’s policies under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership.

According to Chugh, the BJP received high voter confidence, as evidenced by the increased vote percentage and support base.

He stated, “The heavy polling in Jammu and Kashmir is our first victory. It’s a testament to the Prime Minister’s narrative and vision for the region,” he said in an interview with KNS Editor in Chief Muhammad Aslam Bhat in Delhi.

“We had no alliance with anyone. We fought the elections alone. We got 29 seats this time from earlier 11 seats. This is the actual referendum for our policies viz viz J&K,” Chugh stated, referencing the BJP’s campaign without traditional alliances, which he said resonated with voters.

He also expressed a willingness to work alongside the newly elected representatives, even those from rival parties, to continue development efforts.

However, he firmly stated that the BJP remains opposed to Article 370 and intends to uphold the changes it brought to Jammu and Kashmir’s political landscape.

Chugh emphasized that the BJP received substantial support in the polls, surpassing the National Conference in vote percentage and popularity.

He attributed this to the BJP’s long-standing opposition to what he called the "three families" – Abdullah, Mufti, and Gandhi families.

Chugh further claimed that the people of Jammu and Kashmir have rejected any external influence from Pakistan. "Those who once sang praises of Pakistan have understood that the people of J&K don’t listen to Pakistan anymore," he said. According to Chugh, this shift signifies a growing alignment with the Indian political narrative and a rejection of divisive rhetoric.

Chugh highlighted the BJP’s commitment to the abrogation of Article 370, an article that previously granted special autonomy to Jammu and Kashmir.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel“We have been committed to breaking Article 370 for the last seven decades,” he stated. Chugh described the removal of Article 370 as a historic moment, emphasizing that “370 has become history,” signaling an end to what he described as preferential policies that previously defined the J&K’s governance.

Chugh’s comments also addressed those who continue to call for the restoration of Article 370, including leaders from the National Conference, such as Omar Abdullah.

According to Chugh, the people’s vote against National Conference’s stance on Article 370 serves as a form of referendum, indicating strong public support for the BJP’s policies.

When asked about the future of statehood, Chugh reiterated the BJP’s commitment to restoring it but emphasized the need for patience.

“The Prime Minister and the Home Minister have assured that statehood will be restored at an appropriate time. There’s no need to restore what has already been promised; it will happen soon,” he assured, acknowledging people’s concerns over the delay.

Chugh further highlighted the BJP's developmental initiatives, saying that the party aims to promote stability, rule of law, and economic growth in Jammu and Kashmir.

“We have strengthened internal security, ensured citizens’ safety, and provided stability,” he stated, emphasizing the BJP’s commitment to economic growth and infrastructural development in the region.

Addressing the security situation, Chugh condemned ongoing terrorist activities and pledged strict action against those who attempt to destabilize the region. “Any conspiracy aligned with Pakistan’s agenda will not be tolerated. Such miscreants will face the law,” he told KNS.

He added that the BJP government is committed to ensuring the safety of Indian citizens in Jammu and Kashmir.

Chugh criticized Congress and the National Conference, accusing them of lacking leadership and vision for Jammu and Kashmir. He argued that the Congress party has “no policy, no leader, no intention,” and characterized their approach as reactive rather than proactive. Chugh reiterated the BJP’s independence in running its campaign and its intent to continue promoting development, peace, and internal security in the region. (KNS)