Senior National Conference (NC) leader and former minister Sajjad Ahmed Kichloo received a hero’s welcome in Kishtwar today after winning a seat in the Rajya Sabha. Thousands of enthusiastic supporters gathered to honor him, showcasing significant community support.
Celebrations erupted when Kichloo arrived in the town, prompting a grand victory rally through the main market and surrounding areas. Jubilant party functionaries and supporters garlanded him, filling the air with chants of “NC Zindabad” and “Kichloo Sahab Zindabad.” The victory rally, rich in local spirit, concluded with loud cries of triumph.
The National Conference bagged three of the four Rajya Sabha seats from Jammu and Kashmir, while the BJP secured one. Kichloo and his party leaders characterized this performance as a triumph of their policies led by Omar Abdullah and a firm rejection of the divisive decisions made on August 5, 2019. This date marked the abrogation of Article 370 and the bifurcation of the former state into two Union Territories.
Addressing the crowd, Kichloo emphasized, “Today’s victory is a victory of our government’s policies. The BJP resorts to horse-trading. They lacked the numbers but tried to influence votes using all resources.” His words resonated with the supporters, echoing the party’s sentiment against the BJP’s alleged deceit.
Kichloo criticized the BJP for claims of potential legislators who turned against their commitments to vote for NC. “We will identify those who backtracked after pledging their votes to us,” Kichloo stated, highlighting the importance of integrity in politics. “The NC’s votes remained intact — there was no cross-voting. So where did the BJP’s four extra votes come from?” he questioned vehemently.
Further accusing the BJP of employing money and pressure tactics, Kichloo challenged any legislators involved to admit their actions, stating, “Let those who invalidated their votes or assisted the BJP have the courage to admit it. The people will soon know who sold their conscience.” This statement underscored the ongoing political tensions in the region and the NC’s commitment to transparency.
The victory rally not only reaffirmed Kichloo’s position but also quelled any doubts regarding the NC’s support in Jammu and Kashmir. As the local populace showed their unwavering allegiance, it signifies a shifting political landscape that both parties must navigate moving forward. Kichloo’s return to Kishtwar marks the beginning of a renewed engagement with the community, emphasizing the importance of accountability and ethical governance.
