As campaigning for the second phase of the Jammu & Kashmir polls came to a close on Monday, political leaders delivered their final pitches to the people, promising progress, stability, and a new era for the region. Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, addressing a rally, underscored the BJP’s track record of fulfilling promises. He declared, Whatever BJP promises, it delivers 100 percent. He further reassured the people that the restoration of Jammu & Kashmir’s statehood remains a firm commitment of his government, adding that in the interest of the nation, Jammu & Kashmir will regain statehood. With the second phase of polling set for September 25th, Modi ji urged voters to create a historic turnout, asserting that the BJP’s candidates stand for democracy, peace, and prosperity. He encouraged people to make sure their votes make history by casting a record-breaking vote. Meanwhile, Omar Abdullah, leader of the National Conference (NC), held a boat rally at Dal Lake, taking aim at the ruling party. He stressed his party’s confidence in the people rather than relying on surveys or data projections. We don’t conduct surveys, we place our trust in the people, he said, expressing faith that this trust would translate into votes for the NC-led alliance. As the region braces for the next phase of polling, he declared that post-October 8th, the National Conference and its allies would assert their presence. Mehbooba Mufti, leader of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), alongside her daughter, Iltija Mufti also voiced strong opposition to the status quo. She highlighted the plight of political prisoners and the region’s youth, pledging that if elected, her party would secure their release and work towards a more just and inclusive governance. Rahul Gandhi, leading the Congress campaign, centered his message on employment and economic reform. In his manifesto, he promised the creation of one lakh government jobs for the region’s youth, emphasising that those currently unemployed would receive a monthly allowance of ₹3,500 under an India Alliance government. Women would be entitled to ₹3,000 monthly, along with loans of up to ₹5 lakh for self-help groups. Additionally, he outlined plans to establish mobile clinics in every tehsil and a super-specialty hospital in every district. His commitment to the people was evident as he stated, “Jab apko meri zarurat ho, bas kehna”(Whenever you need me, just say ), vowing to serve their interests in Parliament and be their voice. With all major parties making strong appeals, the coming phase of voting on September 25th promises to be a pivotal moment in shaping the future of Jammu & Kashmir, as voters weigh promises of prosperity, peace, and democratic renewal.