Despite withdrawing support from ruling coalition, Congress has not walked out of the government thus stopping midway in Jammu and Kashmir, creating a situation of uncertainty at a time when the State is getting ready for Assembly elections. Since the parties are fighting separately but still sticking to the government jointly, the voters have a reason to feel confused. In fact, this has already sent across a wrong signal to voters and workers at large. If the breakup is part of a poll strategy to retain regional advantage then also the situation looks not that clear where the party can dictate terms. So the caution! It is the case of once bitten twice shy, for not to leave the government, Congress must have taken a cue from the Maharashtra development. The Centre had imposed President’s rule in that state once the alliance between Congress and Nationalist Congress Party collapsed ahead of Assembly elections last month. The Maharshtra experience seems to have worked like a stopper for Congress formally withdrawing support to National Conference. Though elections are conducted by Election Commission, having a government in poll time is always seen as an advantage for the ruling party, which in reality at times may not be true also. Same situation prevails in Jharkhand also where Congress has not walked out of the government but has withdrawn support to alliance partner . BJP’s placing with voters in the Valley will surely have tough time for National Conference and Congress. At this moment Congress is on a weak wicket compared to UPA tenure in the Centre. Whatever be the success for the party it will be on individual basis and not at party’s strength. UPA in centre was what has helped Congress manage to be in the government in Jammu and Kashmir and Jharkhand. All said and done for BJP, this election too won’t be cake walk and could be the real test of its popularity. Prospects may improve but will not be the case of a massive victory. What is to be seen is that whether Modi’s poll rallies will be able to muster 44+ position for BJP in Jammu and Kashmir?
