BJP’s Jitendra banking on Modi wave again; Lal's fresh Congress approach sparks interest

Clash of Singhs to decide swing of luck in Kathua-Udhampur- Doda

JAMMU: The Udhampur-Doda-Kathua constituency which is one of the largest and most populous parliamentary constituencies in the JKUT goes to polls for Lok Sabha contest on April 19. It covers a diverse demographic landscape, including urban centers, rural areas, and hilly terrain.
It presents a complex electoral landscape characterized by demographic diversity and intense political competition. The contest between BJP’s Jitendra Singh and Congress’ Lal Singh is likely to be closely watched, with both candidates vying for the support of various communities and strategically positioning themselves to secure victory in this crucial parliamentary seat.
Jitendra Singh, benefitting and ruling since past 10 years in the constituency once again heavily depends on the "Modi wave," which refers to the phenomenon where popularity and charisma of Prime Minister Narendra Modi positively influence the electoral prospects of BJP candidates across the country.
Though there is no anti-incumbency factor visible in Kathua-Udhampur-Doda yet the simmering discontent among the people is about neglect by centre as many of the 18 assembly constituencies in 5 districts of this Lok Sabha seat though upgraded on infra issues, but not yet catering to the development of the people.
The constituency is represented by Union Minister in PMO, Jitendra Singh, yet the living standards of people have not changed.
Predominantly ruled by Indian National Congress since 1957, this constituency having geographical and ethnic diversity has been lacking to get Centre government’s attention for holistic development.
‘Modi wave’ in 2104 and 2019 gave BJP double chance to take over the constituency, but many public concerns remain unattended as people rue for its MP being unapproachable and mainly remaining confined to Centre only.
Meanwhile the immediate political challenges in the constituency have grown manifold over the recent times as ‘Modi wave’ not the flag bearer for BJP polls 2024 this time , BJP seems to be on the flimsy grounds Kathua-Udhampur-Doda constituency.
A three dimensional picture is emerging on the front with Congress regaining foothold with Lal Singh’s popularity being talked loud, to contest the seat as he has already shown his strength in Kathua and Udhampur belt.
Lal Singh who contested the last elections in 2019 through is newly floated Dogra Swabhiman Sangathan Party (DSSP) lost miserably by landing at the fourth place by garnering only 19,049 votes against astronomical share of Jitendra Singh’s 7,24,311, this time around is being seen as close contender to the sitting MP while contesting on the Congress ticket .

Updated On 4/7/2024 1:00:23 AM