The governor’s rule in Jammu and Kashmir is expected to continue for the time being, if BJP National General Secretary Ram Madhav’s words are to go by.
On Tuesday, 15 November, news agency ANI quoted Madhav saying: “Ever since Governor rule has been imposed in the J&K there has been development in all sectors. Even the public is happy. So, the party has decided that governor's rule should continue for some more time”.
Madhav also asked the PDP and the National Conference to clarify their stand on elections in the state. “They (PDP and NC) say they'll boycott elections until the matter of 35A is resolved. On the other hand, they ask to dissolve the Assembly and call for an election. Let me ask you if there’s an election in the near future, will you contest it or boycott it?” said Madhav.
On Monday, 13 November, news agency PTI quoted sources to report that the Centre may recommend a spell of President’s rule at the expiry of Governor’s rule on 19 December.
Under the Constitution of Jammu and Kashmir, there is no provision for extension of Governor’s rule. The state is under central rule since 19 June after the BJP withdrew support from the then Mehbooba Mufti-led coalition government.
Under the current scenario, none of the parties enjoy a majority in the 87-member Assembly, in which the PDP has 28 MLAs, the BJP 25 and the National Conference 15.
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