New Delhi: Sachin Pilot, a Congress leader, emphasised that restoring Jammu and Kashmir’s statehood is tied to the dignity and self-respect of its people. He criticised the BJP for disregarding the emotions of the Union Territory’s residents by revoking Article 370.
During the first phase of assembly polls in Jammu and Kashmir, Pilot highlighted that the INDIA alliance had made progress in the Lok Sabha elections and noted changes in public sentiment. He reiterated that the Congress manifesto promises to restore statehood, a move he says the BJP took away without reason.
Pilot also accused the BJP of contesting the elections through proxies, as it allegedly couldn’t do so on its own. Reflecting on the Bharat Jodo Yatra led by Rahul Gandhi, he said it brought hope to the people, despite security concerns raised by the government. Gandhi’s message of love was well-received by Jammu and Kashmir’s residents.
Earlier, Pilot criticised the government for halting development in the region and expressed that people are now seeking a government that meets their expectations.
As of 5 pm, voter turnout in the first phase stood at 58.19%. The next two phases will be held on September 25 and October 1, with the results announced on October 8. This election, held after nearly a decade, is the first since the revocation of Article 370.