Srinagar: In a significant setback for the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in the disputed region of occupied Jammu and Kashmir, a wave of candidate resignations and rebellions is highlighting the party’s struggles amid widespread public discontent. The dissatisfaction stems from the revocation of the region’s special status, which has escalated tensions and diminished the BJP’s local support.
According to Kashmir Media Service, the atmosphere ahead of the upcoming assembly elections is charged, with the BJP perceived negatively due to its policies, particularly the removal of Jammu and Kashmir’s autonomous status. This has led to a series of defections from the party, most notably by Suraj Singh Parihar, the BJP’s Ramban District Vice-President, who resigned to run as an independent, reflecting a broader trend of candidates distancing themselves from the party.
The defections are not isolated incidents but part of a broader disaffection within the BJP’s ranks, as several candidates have either relinquished their nominations or resigned from the party altogether. This internal turmoil is complicating the BJP’s campaign strategy in a region where it faces significant opposition.
Efforts by the BJP’s regional leadership, including IIOJK President Ravinder Raina, to stabilize the situation have so far not stemmed the tide of departures. The ongoing challenges highlight the complexities of regional politics in Jammu and Kashmir and underscore the difficulties the BJP faces in gaining electoral support amidst a disillusioned electorate.
As the elections draw nearer, the BJP’s difficulties in the region are expected to grow, with the party grappling not only with external opposition but also with significant internal strife.