PM Modi launches J&K campaign, slams political dynasts
- In Reports
- 05:12 PM, Sep 14, 2024
- Myind Staff
Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched his campaign for the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly elections with a rally in Doda on Saturday, marking his first visit to the region in 42 years. Addressing a large gathering in support of BJP candidates, Modi criticised the region’s past political dynasties and highlighted the significance of recent electoral reforms.
In his speech, Modi aimed sharp criticism at Congress, the National Conference (NC), and the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), calling out the three political families for allegedly destroying Jammu and Kashmir. "The three political families of Jammu and Kashmir have hollowed out and destroyed the state, turning a blind eye to terrorism for their self-interest," Modi said. He accused these parties of fostering an environment that allowed terrorism to thrive and undermined opportunities for youth and governance.
Modi promised a future of peace and prosperity under his leadership, stating, "Terrorism is breathing its last in Jammu and Kashmir." He framed the upcoming elections as a critical choice between these "dynasties" and the youth of Jammu and Kashmir, emphasising the BJP's efforts to bring about positive change.
The Prime Minister highlighted the importance of recent elections in the region as a testament to the BJP's commitment to democratic reforms. "Till now, 'Pariwarwad' (family rule) did not allow the youth to come forward," Modi said, referring to his government's efforts since 2014 to foster new leadership. He detailed the introduction of Panchayat elections in 2018, Block Development Council (BDC) elections in 2019, and District Development Council (DDC) elections in 2020, asserting that these were steps taken to ensure democracy reached the grassroots level in Jammu and Kashmir.
"This time's assembly election in Jammu and Kashmir is between three families and the youth of Jammu and Kashmir. One family belongs to Congress, one family belongs to the National Conference, and one family belongs to PDP... What these three families have done to you people in Jammu and Kashmir is no less than a sin," Modi added.
Recalling past difficulties, Modi remarked, "Remember the time when an unofficial curfew would be imposed here as soon as the sun set?" He noted that conditions had deteriorated to the extent that even the Home Minister of the Congress-led central government was afraid to visit Lal Chowk in Srinagar.
On development, Modi emphasised the BJP’s dedication to enhancing educational infrastructure in the region. "I want every child in Jammu and Kashmir to have access to good education," he said, mentioning the recent inauguration of new schools and colleges, including a long-demanded medical college in Doda.
Modi also reiterated the BJP’s commitment to restoring full statehood to Jammu and Kashmir. "The BJP government will also be the one to grant full statehood to Jammu and Kashmir," he promised while urging voters to be cautious of those who had previously deprived them of their rights.
Concluding his rally, Modi urged voters to support BJP candidates, stating, "BJP’s resolution and your support can bring peace, prosperity, and security to Jammu and Kashmir. Make our candidates win with a huge mandate to ensure a brighter future for everyone in the valley."
The rally marks a significant moment in the lead-up to the assembly elections, with PM Modi positioning the BJP as a champion of progress, security, and democratic reform against the backdrop of past political failures and terrorism.
Image source: CNBC TV18
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