In a rare gesture, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has decided to spend time with the flood-affected people in Jammu & Kashmir on Diwali. He will stay in Srinagar on October 23 and meet the people. It is seen as a fitting tribute to the people of J&K, who had a terrible time in recent floods. Modi’s decision may also revive the BJP’s fortunes in J&K, which will go to polls later this year.

Earlier, Prime Minister had made an aerial survey of Kashmir soon after the floods and met with the government officials as well as Chief Minister Omar Abdullah. He had announced Rs 1,000 crore for rehabilitation of the state.

“Will be in Srinagar on Diwali, 23rd October & will spend the day with our sisters & brothers affected by the unfortunate flood,” Narendra Modi tweeted.