Pawan Kumar Gupta, the BJP candidate contesting from the Udhampur West Assembly constituency in Jammu and Kashmir, recently filed his nomination papers for the forthcoming assembly elections happening in the region. Gupta expressed confidence in the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, citing the removal of Article 370 as a significant step that has led to peace prevailing in Kashmir. He mentioned that there is a visible decrease in incidents like stone-pelting and militancy, while also noting that essential services like schools, colleges, and businesses have resumed their operations smoothly in the area.
In an interview with ANI, Pawan Kumar Gupta elaborated on the support for PM Modi among the people of Jammu and Kashmir, attributing it to the positive changes seen in the aftermath of the abrogation of Article 370. Gupta emphasized the restored sense of peace in Kashmir and the corresponding improvements in various sectors, such as a decline in militant activities and the thriving of educational institutions and businesses. He also highlighted the general satisfaction among stakeholders like Shikara operators, hoteliers, and restaurant owners in the region, pointing out the widespread display of the national flag as a symbol of unity and progress in Jammu and Kashmir.
Additionally, Union Minister and BJP leader Amit Shah criticized the manifestos of Congress and the National Conference, accusing them of seeking to revive past issues, including talks with Pakistan while advocating for maintaining peace before engaging in any dialogue with the neighboring country. Shah emphasized the BJP’s manifesto promises, focusing on empowering women, youth, and various communities in the region, with specific commitments to address the concerns of Kashmiri Pandits, safeguard religious sites, and combat terrorism. The upcoming assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir are set to have political parties like the National Conference and the Congress contesting together, marking a crucial electoral event in the region post the abrogation of Article 370.