JAMMU, SEPT 26: Senior Congress leader Rajiv Shukla on Thursday accused the BJP of aligning with separatist elements in Jammu and Kashmir for political gains. Speaking at a press conference in Jammu, Shukla warned that BJP’s actions are a threat to the region’s stability, stating, “BJP is playing with fire by encouraging separatists to defeat Congress and National Conference (NC).”
Shukla emphasized that the upcoming elections are critical, with consequences beyond the region, and urged the people of J&K to send a strong message through their votes. He accused the BJP of betraying its promise to restore J&K’s statehood and criticized the central government for exploiting religious sentiments and neglecting the region’s needs.
He highlighted the spike in militancy in Jammu and condemned the rise in power tariffs due to smart meters, blaming BJP-affiliated contractors for sidelining local workers. Shukla also pointed out rampant corruption, unemployment, and stalled development in the region, questioning BJP’s claims of progress.
Confident of an electoral win, Shukla concluded by asserting that the Congress-NC alliance will form the next government, promising to restore both development and dignity to J&K.
