The Bharatiya Janata Party has recently made a significant move by appointing RSS leader and former party general secretary, Ram Madhav, as the election in-charge for the upcoming Assembly polls in Jammu and Kashmir.
Madhav’s return to Jammu and Kashmir comes with a sense of responsibility, as he played a pivotal role in forming BJP’s alliance government with the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in 2015, following a hung verdict in the assembly polls.
Despite the alliance breaking in 2018 after BJP withdrew support to then chief minister Mehbooba Mufti-led PDP, Madhav’s reentry into active politics signifies a new chapter. He will be working alongside Union Minister G Kishan Reddy to manage the election affairs in the Union Territory.
The three-phase assembly polls in Jammu and Kashmir are scheduled to kick off on September 18, with subsequent rounds on September 25 and October 1. The final results will be announced on August 4.
According to a statement from the BJP, party president JP Nadda has appointed Madhav and Reddy as the poll in-charges, a unique move as usually one leader takes up the position.
Madhav, known for his significant role in BJP’s organisational activities from 2014 to 2020, has a deep understanding of the political landscape in Jammu and Kashmir, making him a valuable asset for the party.
Madhav’s reinstatement underlines the crucial role he may play in navigating the complex political dynamics and narratives in the Union Territory, hinting at the RSS’s involvement in the upcoming polls, as per sources quoted by news agency PTI.
After his stint as BJP general secretary, Madhav rejoined the RSS in 2021 and currently serves as an executive member. He is also the president of the India Foundation, a think tank, and a regular contributor to media opinion pieces.
In his previous tenure with the BJP, Madhav spearheaded the party’s expansion drive in the Northeast region and played a visible role in its activities, indicating his expertise in strategic planning and execution.
The BJP’s previous efforts have yielded favorable results in the predominantly Hindu region of Jammu, securing significant wins in past elections. With a focus on strengthening its presence, the party aims to make further strides in the upcoming polls.
Despite facing challenges in the Kashmir Valley, the BJP’s stronghold lies in the Jammu region, where it has consistently garnered support. As preparations for the assembly elections unfold, all eyes are on the diverse political landscape of Jammu and Kashmir.
As Jammu and Kashmir gears up for its first Assembly elections in a decade, the stakes are high for all political players. With the first phase scheduled for September 18, the forthcoming polls hold the key to shaping the future governance of the Union Territory.
