The Kashmir Pulse

SRINAGAR — With Prime Minister Narendra Modi's upcoming visit to Kashmir on March 7, political parties in the region are reflecting contrasting sentiments among locals.

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) expressed scepticism about any potential positive outcomes from Modi's visit, citing grievances against the BJP-led government's treatment of Kashmiris.

PDP spokesperson Suhail Bukhari, addressing a press conference in Srinagar, asserted that the people of the valley harboured no expectations from the Prime Minister's visit. "The BJP government misbehaved and never listened to the people," Bukhari stated, reflecting a sentiment of disillusionment among many Kashmiris.

In contrast, BJP National General Secretary Tarun Chugh painted an optimistic picture of Kashmir's anticipation, claiming that Kashmiris held high hopes for Modi's leadership.

Chugh highlighted the purported achievements under Modi's administration, including industrial growth, employment opportunities for youth, and the revocation of Article 370. He emphasized the enthusiasm among locals for Modi's forthcoming rally at Bakshi Stadium in Srinagar.

The contrasting views underscore the political divide in Kashmir, with the PDP expressing scepticism while the BJP remains optimistic about the impact of Modi's visit. As Kashmir braces for Modi's arrival, the region finds itself at the centre of divergent political opinions and aspirations.

This post first appeared on The Kashmir Pulse

SRINAGAR — Dr Shehnaz Ganie, the former member of the Legislative Council in Jammu and Kashmir who hails from Poonch, joined Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP), on Monday.

Reports said that Shehnaz Ganie was currently in New Delhi and had already met several top-notch BJP leaders.

Dr Shehnaz Ganie told the news agency KNT that BJP National Secretary Tarun Chug and a Union Minister were present when she formally announced her joining the party in New Delhi.

“BJP does what it says. This party has fulfilled all the promises it made to the people. It gave Pahari Status to the deprived class. BJP worked for the safety of women and the welfare of people all across the country,” she said.

In response to a question, Dr Shehnaz Ganie said that it is a futile exercise to talk about Article 370. “I believe after the Supreme Court verdict, the chapter is closed now. Those political parties who still rake up this issue are agendaless and have nothing to offer to the people of Jammu and Kashmir,” Dr Shehnaz Ganie said.

National Conference had inducted her as a member of the legislative council and in 2019, she quit the party for the reasons better known to her.

“She left our party over five years ago. It’s wrong to connect with us,” said a National Conference leader, adding that she has nothing to do with the National Conference.

This post first appeared on The Kashmir Pulse