In a surprising turn of events, the National Conference (NC), one of the prominent regional political parties in Jammu and Kashmir, is reportedly mobilising local residents to attend Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s rally in the region. This development comes at a time when the political landscape of Kashmir remains tense and polarised, with the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019 continuing to shape the region’s socio-political dynamics.
A Unifying Move or a Tactical Shift?
The move by the National Conference has sparked speculation about the party’s motives. Known for its staunch opposition to the BJP’s policies in Jammu and Kashmir, the NC’s decision to encourage attendance at PM Modi’s rally is being viewed as either a conciliatory gesture or a strategic calculation.
Party insiders suggest that the NC leadership, led by Farooq Abdullah and Omar Abdullah, sees this as an opportunity to showcase solidarity and promote peace in the region. “Our aim is to highlight the aspirations of the Kashmiri people on a national platform. Attending the rally is not an endorsement of policies but a chance to voice our concerns,” said a senior NC leader on the condition of anonymity.
PM Modi’s Visit: A High-Stakes Event
Prime Minister Modi’s rally is seen as a significant event, aimed at reinforcing the central government’s development agenda in Jammu and Kashmir. The rally comes amidst a renewed focus on infrastructure, tourism, and investment initiatives in the Valley, as the government attempts to project normalcy and progress post-Article 370.
The BJP has termed the rally as an opportunity to connect with the grassroots and reaffirm its commitment to the welfare of the region. However, critics argue that the visit is politically motivated, aimed at consolidating BJP’s foothold in a historically challenging region.
Mixed Reactions on the Ground
The news of the NC mobilising locals has elicited mixed reactions across the political spectrum. PDP leader Mehbooba Mufti criticised the move, calling it “a betrayal of the people’s mandate.” In a statement, she said, “Those who once stood for Kashmir’s autonomy are now facilitating rallies for a government that dismantled our special status. This is political opportunism at its worst.”
Meanwhile, BJP leaders welcomed the development, interpreting it as a sign of the opposition acknowledging the Prime Minister’s vision for Jammu and Kashmir. “Even the National Conference realises the importance of PM Modi’s leadership. This is a step towards greater unity and progress in the Valley,” said BJP spokesperson Gaurav Bhatia.
Challenges for the National Conference
For the National Conference, this move could be a double-edged sword. While it may help the party engage constructively with the central government, it also risks alienating its core voter base, which has long been skeptical of BJP’s policies in the region.
Political analysts believe that the NC is walking a tightrope. “This could either pave the way for a more inclusive dialogue or backfire if perceived as a compromise on the party’s principles,” said Professor Noor Ahmad, a political analyst based in Srinagar.
The Bigger Picture
The mobilisation effort by the NC reflects the complexities of Kashmir’s political landscape, where alliances, rivalries, and public sentiment are often in flux. As PM Modi addresses the rally, the eyes of the nation will be on how the event unfolds and what it signifies for the future of Jammu and Kashmir.
With the region’s peace and development hanging in the balance, the rally and the NC’s involvement could mark a turning point—either towards collaboration or further division.
