Srinagar, September 2, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
A political face-off between the ruling National Conference (NC) and opposition Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) intensified in Jammu and Kashmir on Wednesday, with both parties mobilising supporters for protests targeting each other amid heavy security deployment across Srinagar.
Security forces were deployed in large numbers to maintain law and order ahead of the NC’s planned ‘gherao’ of the BJP headquarters and the BJP’s protest march to the Civil Secretariat.
Police blocked several roads leading to the BJP office in Jawahar Nagar in view of the NC protest, with vehicles being stopped from proceeding towards the area.
Heavy deployment was reported in Jawahar Nagar, Raj Bagh, Wazir Bagh and adjoining areas. Traffic movement towards the BJP headquarters was restricted at several points, affecting connectivity to surrounding residential and commercial areas.
The NC has called for a peaceful ‘gherao’ of BJP offices in Srinagar and Jammu, seeking restoration of statehood, constitutional safeguards and action on other issues concerning Jammu and Kashmir.
According to NC leaders, the protest is aimed at mounting pressure on the Central government to fulfil commitments made by the Prime Minister and Union Home Minister, as well as the Centre’s submission before the Supreme Court regarding restoration of statehood and constitutional guarantees for J&K.
The BJP, meanwhile, has organised a protest against what it alleges is the failure of the NC government to fulfil promises made during the 2024 Assembly elections. The party has cited issues including employment, free electricity and better governance.
The BJP’s protest march in Srinagar is scheduled to begin from the city centre at Lal Chowk and proceed towards the Civil Secretariat in the Batmaloo area.
Security forces have been deployed heavily at Lal Chowk and along the route leading to the Civil Secretariat to prevent any confrontation between rival groups.
Despite the security arrangements, BJP leaders and workers gathered at Lal Chowk for the planned march.
The police restrictions and deployment are intended to prevent clashes and maintain public order as both political parties press their respective demands and allegations in Srinagar.
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