Sajjad Ahmed Kichloo, a senior National Conference (NC) leader and former minister, returned to Kishtwar today to a rousing welcome following his recent victory in the Rajya Sabha elections. Thousands of enthusiastic supporters gathered in the town, showcasing heightened political engagement.
The celebratory rally commenced in the main market of Kishtwar, winding through several localities, where party workers showered Kichloo with garlands. Chants of “NC Zindabad” and “Kichloo Sahab Zindabad” echoed throughout the streets, reflecting the fervor and affection from the crowd.
As the procession wound down, supporters expressed their jubilance with loud slogans celebrating their leader’s success, demonstrating a robust morale within the party ranks.
The National Conference secured three out of four Rajya Sabha seats from Jammu and Kashmir, while the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) claimed one. The NC hailed its performance as a significant endorsement of the policies led by Omar Abdullah, asserting it as a clear rejection of the controversial decisions stemming from August 5, 2019. That date marked the abrogation of Article 370 and the bifurcation of the erstwhile state into two Union Territories.
In front of the gathered supporters, Kichloo noted, “Today’s victory is a victory of our Government’s policies.” He accused the BJP of engaging in “horse-trading,” claiming that despite lacking the necessary numbers, they exerted undue influence to secure votes.
Kichloo further remarked on the loyalty of his party’s legislators, stating, “We will identify those who backtracked after pledging their votes to us.” He emphasized the integrity of the NC’s voting process, questioning the source of the BJP’s additional votes. “Where did the BJP’s four extra votes come from?” he asked, calling into question the credibility of the opposing party.
Accusing the BJP of employing money and pressure tactics, Kichloo insisted, “Let those who invalidated their votes or helped the BJP have the courage to admit it. The people will soon know who sold their conscience.” This statement resonated with his supporters, reinforcing their loyalty to the National Conference.
The day’s events illustrated a deeply rooted political rivalry in Jammu and Kashmir, as Kichloo’s return symbolized not just individual victory but also reaffirmation of the NC’s statewide influence. The rally not only served as a moment of celebration but also as a platform for the party to bolster its narrative against the BJP’s governance.
Kichloo’s victory reception in Kishtwar highlights the ongoing political dynamic in Jammu and Kashmir, where party allegiance and electoral outcomes continue to provoke passionate responses from both sides.
