NC’s Rajya Sabha Boycott Sparks Political Firestorm in J&K
The political climate in Jammu and Kashmir intensified as BJP MLA Shakti Raj Parihar (Doda) slammed the National Conference (NC) for “blatant hypocrisy” after its boycott of the recent Rajya Sabha elections. The controversy, reported by Greater Kashmir, has reignited debates on regional parties’ credibility in the UT.
Rajya Sabha Polls: BJP Victory & NC’s Controversial Absence
The election saw BJP-backed independent candidate Kartikeya Sharma win comfortably, aided by regional allies. However, the NC’s decision to abstain—while later criticizing the BJP’s “undemocratic tactics”—drew sharp backlash.
MLA Parihar accused the NC of double standards: “They pose as democracy’s champions yet boycott key votes. Their hypocrisy is glaring.”
NC Defends Boycott as Protest, BJP Calls It Desperation
NC leader Omar Abdullah justified the abstention as resistance to the “erosion of democratic values” post-Article 370. Parihar countered: “This is political sour grapes. J&K is progressing under PM Modi, and NC can’t accept it.”
What This Means for J&K’s Political Future
The clash highlights the widening BJP-NC divide:
– BJP pushes integration and development.
– NC demands restored autonomy and statehood.
Analysts suggest the NC’s move aimed to placate its Kashmiri base, but the BJP frames it as weakness. “True democrats participate, not pick and choose,” Parihar asserted.
Public Divide & Social Media Frenzy
Reactions split along partisan lines:
– BJP supporters celebrate dominance.
– Critics warn of marginalized Kashmiri voices.
Hashtags like #NCHypocrisy and #JKRajyaSabha trended, reflecting the polarized discourse.
Election Battles Looming
With Assembly polls expected soon, both parties are strategizing:
– BJP to highlight security and infrastructure gains.
– NC to focus on statehood and democratic rights.
Conclusion: A Test of Political Legitimacy
The Rajya Sabha fallout underscores J&K’s volatile politics. As accusations fly, the NC’s selective engagement risks alienating voters, while the BJP capitalizes on its momentum. One certainty? The road to 2024 elections will be fiercely contested.
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