BJP quits PDP alliance in J&K, CM Mehbooba Mufti resigns
What's the story
In a major development, the BJP has pulled out of its alliance with Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Jammu and Kashmir (J&K).
This is a significant decision, considering it was BJP's first government in the state since independence.
Minutes later, CM Mehbooba Mufti resigned. The PDP has called a meeting at 4pm to discuss its next course of action.
Details
BJP-PDP came to power in J&K in 2014
The BJP-PDP government came to power in 2014, after neither party managed to win absolute majority.
BJP's goals were two-fold, said National General Secretary Ram Madhav: restoring peace, especially in Kashmir, and bringing development in all three regions of the state.
After framing a common agenda, they joined hands with the PDP.
But the recent state of affairs is disappointing, he said.
PDP
'PDP's performance during these three years not satisfactory'
Madhav said the Center had provided all help to Kashmir during this period. He mentioned a special package of Rs. 80,000cr forwarded to the state, adding some portion has already been provided.
The Center helped constantly in all aspects, including defense, and did its part in trying to bring peace.
But the PDP's contribution wasn't satisfactory, he claimed.
Terrorism
'Couldn't achieve ceasefire objective as state didn't contribute efficiently'
This comes days after the Home Ministry called off the one-month ceasefire in J&K on the occasion of Ramzan.
It didn't achieve its desired results, Madhav noted, as the state didn't play its role adequately.
But the Center had helped eliminate 600 terrorists in three years, BJP said.
The decision to leave PDP was taken "keeping in mind India's integrity and security."
Rights
'Right to life and free speech in danger'
Party leaders at the conference repeatedly cited esteemed journalist Shujaat Bukhari's audacious murder in a high-security area in Srinagar, saying, "Fundamental rights including right to life and free speech are in danger."
The decision to leave PDP was taken after party chief Amit Shah met J&K BJP lawmakers in New Delhi.
The term of the coalition would have normally ended two years later.
Quote
'Governor's Rule should be imposed for now'
The BJP said the best option for the state is to implement Governor's Rule, but added the decision is with the governor himself. It has 25 lawmakers in the assembly while the PDP has 28. A party needs to have at least 45 for absolute majority.