Ram Madhav, the BJP’s points person for Jammu and Kashmir elections, has firmly denied rumors of the party seeking alliances with the National Conference (NC) or any other political entity. In an interview to a news media channel, he stated, “We are not in talks with anybody,” expressing confidence that the BJP is poised to approach a majority in the upcoming polls.

Reflecting on past political dynamics, Madhav noted that following the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly elections in 2014, there were discussions involving the BJP, NC, and the People’s Democratic Party (PDP). Ultimately, the BJP formed a coalition with the PDP in 2015, which dissolved in 2018 due to significant differences over governance. He emphasized, “In 2014, there was a unique situation where alliances were possible. However, right now, we are not pursuing any alliances. We believe we will get closer to the majority mark and assess potential partners based on seat availability.”

Madhav reiterated the BJP’s commitment to restoring statehood to Jammu and Kashmir, highlighting that both Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah have made strong assurances to this effect. However, when pressed for a specific timeline, he pointed to Parliament as the appropriate body to provide clarity, recalling that the commitment was made in the parliamentary session on August 6, 2019.

He expressed confidence in the government’s dedication to this promise, asserting, “There is complete commitment to that promise… The Prime Minister has said we will do it as early as possible.” Madhav referenced Modi’s speech in Srinagar, where the Prime Minister reiterated the pledge to restore statehood.

When questioned about dissatisfaction in Jammu post-abrogation of Article 370, particularly concerning land rights and employment, Madhav dismissed these claims, indicating that the government remains focused on its goals.

He also took aim at the Congress party, accusing its leaders of treating the election campaign as a “tourism” opportunity rather than genuinely engaging with voters. Madhav contrasted the Congress’s lackluster efforts—pointing out that their leaders often addressed rallies from their mobile phones and were reluctant to travel—against Union Home Minister Amit Shah’s extensive road trips to connect with the electorate. He concluded, “That’s how the people in Jammu felt. The Congress was lazy.”