Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to address a major public rally in Srinagar today, September 19, as part of the Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) campaign for the Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) assembly elections. This rally comes on the heels of a strong voter turnout in the first phase of the assembly polls, which saw a participation rate of 59 percent.
The rally will take place at Srinagar’s Sher-e-Kashmir Park, with the BJP expecting around 30,000 party workers and supporters to attend. This event is part of the BJP’s strategic push to gain traction in the Valley, where the party has historically struggled. Notably, the BJP has yet to secure a seat in Kashmir, despite having fielded candidates in 19 out of the 47 constituencies in the region.
Prime Minister Modi took to social media to express his enthusiasm for the rally and the elections. “I look forward to being among the people of Jammu and Kashmir today. Will address a rally in Srinagar and Katra. Yesterday’s turnout has shown that the people of J&K are very enthusiastic about the elections and are keen to make the poll process vibrant. I will speak about our development agenda and seek people’s blessings,” Modi wrote on X (formerly Twitter).
The rally is significant as it aims to bolster the BJP’s presence in an area where the party has faced challenges. Following the abrogation of Article 370, which granted special autonomy to J&K, the BJP has seen some success in local elections, including three wins in the District Development Council (DDC) elections from Srinagar, Pulwama, and Kupwara districts.
In anticipation of the rally, security forces have heightened their vigilance in Srinagar and across Kashmir. Enhanced patrols and several checkpoints have been established to ensure the safety and security of the event.
This rally in Srinagar follows a recent visit by Prime Minister Modi to Doda in the Jammu region, marking the first time a Prime Minister has visited the area in 42 years. Today’s rally will be the second significant event held by Modi during the ongoing assembly elections.
Sources By Agencies
