Rajya Sabha Elections: Parliamentary Board to decide number of seats BJP contests: MP Khatana

Kupwara, Oct 7: Member of Parliament G A Khatana Monday said that the Parliamentary Board of Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) will decide as to how many seats the party will contest in the upcoming Rajya Sabha elections from Jammu and Kashmir. "Since BJP is the largest democratic party, the decision regarding the number of seats to be contested will be taken by the party’s parliamentary committee," he said.

Khatana was talking to media on the sidelines of a workers meeting in Kupwara.

To a question about recent losses suffered by fruit growers due to the closure of the NH44, he said that the elected government in Jammu and Kashmir should come to the rescue of the affected farmers. He added that the central government will also examine the matter and extend necessary assistance to those who have incurred losses. Khatana impressed upon workers to strengthen the party on grass root level so that it will emerge as victorious in the upcoming panchayat and ULB elections as and when conducted.

Meanwhile, in a press release Khatana criticised the National Conference government for “decades of neglect” that have left Kupwara and its remote border regions underdeveloped and deprived of basic facilities. Calling the situation a “betrayal of people’s trust,” Khatana said that despite repeated assurances, residents continue to face hardships due to poor infrastructure, inadequate healthcare, limited educational opportunities, and slow economic growth. “Kupwara is one of the most beautiful and promising regions of Jammu & Kashmir. Its people are hardworking, courageous, and full of strength. Yet, decades of NC’s failed policies have deprived them of their rightful progress. It’s time for change — and the BJP is fully committed to delivering that change through justice, development, and equal opportunities for all,” he declared.