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Why BJP is not contesting in Kashmir

The reading down of Article 370—the principal boast of the BJP—is the key issue in all three constituencies where the main contenders—the National Conference of the Abdullahs and the People’s Democratic Party of the Muftis—are fighting it out. Article 370 is seen as the symbol of the “identity“ and “dignity” of the Valley inhabitants, as Mehbooba's daughter, Iltija, keeps emphasising. It is also seen as the guarantor of the “rights” of the Kashmiri people.