Rights, Not Charity: Women Demand Timely Elections
06/10/2026
Jammu, October 06 (KIP)-BJP Spokesperson Rajni Sethi today strongly criticized the National Conference government for its continued silence and lack of clarity over the conduct of BDC, DDC and Urban Local Bodies elections in Jammu and Kashmir, stating that women are demanding their democratic rights, not charity or political favours.
Women in Jammu and Kashmir have consistently fought for their rightful place in society and public life, irrespective of which political party was in power. The question today is simple: Why should women still have to struggle for their basic democratic and political rights?
After a long gap, Urban Local Bodies elections were held in 2018, providing women with an important opportunity to participate in local governance. This was followed by the BDC and DDC election process, which opened new avenues for women to emerge as grassroots leaders. Women demonstrated their leadership, courage and commitment and proved that they are not merely voters, but capable representatives, decision-makers and leaders who understand the concerns of ordinary people.
However, nearly two years into the present National Conference government, there appears to be no clear roadmap for restoring this democratic space. Instead of strengthening grassroots democracy and empowering women, the government appears more focused on protecting its political interests.
It is deeply disappointing that the government continues to avoid giving a clear timeline for these elections. The argument that elections cannot be conducted until Statehood is restored raises serious questions about the government’s commitment to democracy. Statehood cannot become an excuse for indefinitely delaying the democratic rights of the people of Jammu and Kashmir.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has consistently emphasized women-led development, equal participation and greater opportunities for women in public life. Yet women in Jammu and Kashmir who aspire to serve society through Panchayats, BDCs, DDCs and Urban Local Bodies are being denied the platforms through which they can contribute meaningfully to governance and development.
Women constitute nearly half of society and cannot be treated merely as a vote bank. They deserve representation, opportunity and a meaningful role in decision-making. Every woman who wishes to enter public life has the right to contest elections, represent her people and serve her community.
The National Conference government must come out of its political comfort zone and stop delaying democracy. It must announce a clear roadmap and conduct the BDC, DDC and Urban Local Bodies elections at the earliest.
Women are not asking for charity. They are demanding their constitutional and democratic rights. The NC government must answer why these rights are being delayed and when the people of Jammu and Kashmir will finally get a clear timeline for these elections.=