Hardeep Jamwal, JNM Journalist, Jammu
The political atmosphere in the Battal Morh area of Udhampur district heated up suddenly on Wednesday, ahead of Jammu and Kashmir Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary’s visit to Majalta. Workers from the National Conference (NC) and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) came face-to-face, creating a tense situation in the area for a brief period. Supporters of both parties engaged in heated slogan-shouting and traded political accusations, a situation that was brought under control through the prompt action of the police and administration.
According to reports, BJP workers had gathered at Battal Morh to protest against Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary’s scheduled visit. The protesters raised slogans against the government’s policies and demonstrated in opposition to the Deputy Chief Minister. Meanwhile, local leaders and workers from the National Conference also arrived at the scene and began raising slogans in support of the Deputy Chief Minister.
The two sides soon confronted each other, and the atmosphere became tense. Observing the situation escalating, the police force present at the scene intervened immediately and separated the workers of both parties. Administrative officials also arrived to assess the situation and appealed for the maintenance of peace.
Eyewitnesses stated that tension prevailed in the area for about half an hour, but thanks to police vigilance and swift action, no untoward incident occurred. Additional police forces were deployed in the area to maintain law and order.
Later, as Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary’s convoy proceeded towards the Majalta area, BJP leaders and workers registered their protest by displaying black bands. Conversely, National Conference supporters gave the Deputy Chief Minister a rousing welcome and raised slogans in his support.
The administration stated that elaborate security arrangements had been made in advance for the Deputy Chief Minister’s visit. Police and administrative officials kept a close watch on the situation and succeeded in preventing any disorder. Political observers believe that political activity in the area could intensify further, given the upcoming political events and public rallies. Meanwhile, the police administration has appealed to the public to maintain peace and harmony.
