Does Jammu matter at all for BJP? Harsh Dev Singh Re-organization of J&K effected on August 5, 2019 saw the division of the J&K State into two Union Territories. While Ladakh was conferred an autonomous status, Jammu was again clubbed with Kashmir. The decision came as completely unexpected. Like a bolt from the blue. For J&K was the oldest Dogra State conceptualized and created by Maharaja Gulab Singh. In fact the only Dogra State in the country. The people of Jammu though unnerved by the decision yet were made to reconcile. More so through persuasion and also to some extent coercion, rather than conviction. With regard to many others, their nationalist sentiment was invoked. It was said that it was necessary in public interest and that prevalent Kashmir situation warranted such a step to be taken in national interest. A ploy, an overriding mantra that has often been used to consecrate any opportunist or political maneuvering by the BJP. It was most vociferously assured that Jammu would henceforth witness its empowerment with an enhanced share in funds allocation, employment and allied sectors. While the gullibility of the innocent masses was exploited to the full, those who objected to the dismantling of the Dogra State and its downgrading were dealt with through the coercive apparatus of the State. Almost all the prominent leaders of Jammu except those of BJP were either put behind bars or placed under house arrest with massive restrictions imposed upon them. It was saffron leadership alone which was given an open field and enjoyed the monopoly to hold public seminars and to propagate the so called benefits of government move with the support of some more-loyal-than-the-king brand ‘intellectuals’ of Jammu. More than an year has elapsed since the abrogation of Article 370 and conversion of the State into UT. And more than six years have passed since the ‘nationalist’ and ‘pro Jammu’ BJP ascended to power. It’s time to ruminate over our predicament. Especially in the light of what was promised to us by the so called champions of Jammu and what actually has transpired and delivered on the ground.