Srinagar: Samajwadi Party president Akhilesh Yadav announced on Saturday that his party is contesting the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly election as part of its strategy to achieve national party status. Yadav emphasized that this election, the first since the abrogation of Article 370, presents a significant opportunity for the SP to expand its influence.

"The decision to contest in J&K reflects our commitment to becoming a national party. This election is historic as it's the first since the abrogation of Article 370, and smaller states can significantly aid our national ambitions," Yadav told reporters. The Jammu and Kashmir Assembly elections will be held in three phases: September 18, 25, and October 1, with the counting scheduled for October 8. The state has 90 assembly constituencies, including 7 reserved for SCs and 9 for STs.

To be recognized as a national party, a political organization must meet one of three criteria outlined in the Election Symbols (Reservation and Allotment) Order, 1968: securing at least six percent of the votes in four or more states in Lok Sabha or assembly elections, having at least four Lok Sabha members, or being recognized as a state party in at least four states. On a separate note, Yadav extended greetings on Hindi Diwas, celebrated annually on September 14 to honor Hindi as one of India's official languages. He stressed the importance of promoting Indian languages and preserving their heritage.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah also extended their wishes on Hindi Diwas, highlighting the significance of Indian languages in the country's cultural and national unity.

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