The Diplomat Desk
Srinagar, (TDD): Prime Minister Narendra Modi Thursday said that he was looking forward to be among the people of Jammu and Kashmir today.
In a message on X, PM Modi wrote: “I look forward to be among the people of Jammu and Kashmir today. Will address a rally in Srinagar and Katra.”
He also hailed the huge turnout in the first phase of elections yesterday, emphasizing the vibrant democratic process was taking place in J&K.
“Yesterday’s turnout has shown that the people of J&K are very enthusiastic about the elections and are keen to make the poll process vibrant,” PM’s message reads further.
PM Modi is scheduled to address two rallies today, one in Srinagar and another at Katra, Jammu. He will campaign for the BJP candidates in fray for the second phase of polls.
“It will be a very big rally, and people here are excited to listen to Modiji,” said a senior BJP leader.
Srinagar and the rally venue Sher-e-Kashmir Cricket Stadium in Srinagar are decked up to welcome Modi. Stringent security measures are also in place across Srinagar.
The area around the rally venue has been secured with multiple layers of security. “We have made a multi-tier security arrangement for the VVIP visit as per the Standard Operating Procedure laid down for such events,” said a senior police official.
This will be third visit of PM Modi to Kashmir this year. Earlier, he visited in March to address a rally Bakshi Stadium and again in June for a Yoga celebration at SKICC in Srinagar
The BJP has fielded 19 candidates in Kashmir, leaving some seats open for ‘like-minded’ independent candidates and allied parties.(TDD)