There has been a lot of buzz in Jammu and Kashmir since Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised Congress leader Ghulam Nabi Azad describing him as the irreplaceable leader.
Many people are of the opinion that Azad would be returning to the politics of Jammu and Kashmir demanding for restoration of the statehood. The Centre might pay heed to these demands of factors like results of DDC polls in which party didn’t perform as expected. Other than that, external factors like a recent statement from the US state department which called for making continuing political and economic progress in Jammu and Kashmir are also pressurizing the Centre.
There is also an argument being made by many that the continuous pressure cooker like situation in Jammu and Kashmir is not sustainable and can’t be stretched for long. There is a need to start political process and Azad could play an important role in it.
People are speculating that Prime Minister’s praise for Azad could be caused because the BJP wants him to spearhead the political discourse in Jammu and Kashmir for the restoration of the statehood as no major political party has a problem with him. Another reason why the BJP could want him to be the next CM of Jammu and Kashmir so that they can show the external forces that J&K still has a Muslim CM.
Azad was the chief minister of J&K from 2005 to 2008. Hindu belt of Jammu backs him. In Kashmir too, he was connected with the people there. Throughout his career, Azad has been talking about the development of the state rather than urging talks with Pakistan or separatists which is quite unlike other politicians of the region.
People say that it is the main reason why BJP wants to see Azad return to Jammu and Kashmir and start a political campaign for restoring statehood. Other mainstream political parties of J&K would also agree with this demand as they lack any alternative in the current situation.
Azad could play a major role in the politics of J&K if Congress performs slightly better. BJP would also like to see Azad being a major opposition figure rather than Abdullahs and Mufti.
