Loss of Modi image, vote base force BJP's hand

New Delhi: The BJP’s move to end its so-called “unnatural” alliance with the PDP in J&K was mainly to restore the “strong leader” image of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and to consolidate its votebank in Jammu and Ladakh regions.

The decision to snap ties with the PDP was taken during the RSS-BJP core group meeting on Saturday at Prime Minister Modi’s residence. 

With the general election fast approaching and the situation in the Valley showing no signs of improvement, the BJP had no alternative but to withdraw support, a senior party leader said. It was felt with J&K chief minister Mehbooba Mufti allegedly pursuing her soft separatist narrative, the BJP was rapidly losing its base in Jammu and Ladakh and among Hindutva elements.