SRINAGAR: In a significant announcement made during an election rally in Udhampur, Prime Minister Narendra Modi declared the imminent restoration of statehood to Jammu and Kashmir, alongside the promise of conducting Assembly polls soon. Addressing a campaign rally, Modi expressed his vision for a transformed Jammu and Kashmir, emphasizing the empowerment of its residents through democratic representation.
आर्टिकल 370 हटने के बाद जम्मू-कश्मीर खुलकर सांस ले रहा है। उधमपुर में आशीर्वाद देने आए मेरे परिवारजनों को मोदी की गारंटी है कि अगले 5 वर्षों में यह क्षेत्र विकास की नई ऊंचाइयों को छुएगा।https://t.co/DT7fnryK1J
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) April 12, 2024
“Modi thinks far ahead. So what has happened so far is just the trailer,” Modi told the rally. “I have to get busy in creating a new and wonderful picture of the new Jammu and Kashmir. The time is not far when Assembly Elections will be held in Jammu and Kashmir. Jammu and Kashmir will get the status of statehood. You will be able to share your dreams with your MLA and your ministers.”
This announcement holds profound implications, especially as it comes just ahead of the upcoming Lok Sabha elections slated to commence on April 19. PM Modi assured the people of Jammu and Kashmir that the elections would take place without the looming spectres of terrorism, separatism, and cross-border tensions.
“After decades, this election is happening without the fear of terrorism, separatism, stone-pelting, strikes and cross-border terrorism, which are no more election issues,” PM Modi affirmed. He highlighted the shift towards development in the region, instilling confidence among the populace and strengthening their faith in the government’s abilities.
However, amidst the promise of progress, PM Modi did not refrain from criticising the opposition parties, particularly singling out the Congress and its allies. He condemned their engagement in what he termed as “dynasty politics,” accusing them of neglecting the interests of the people in favour of self-serving agendas. He said they had created a wall of 370 to retain power. “With your blessing, Modi has not demolished that wall, but also buried its rubble under the ground.”
“Post revocation of Article 370, the Congress-led INDI alliance tried to spread misconception about it in other states. But we have made Article 370, a history,” Modi said. “I challenge Congress and other parties… do they have the guts to restore it. If they do, people will never see their face.”
The BJP has fielded Union Minister Jitendra Singh from Udhampur, further bolstering their campaign efforts in the area. He has represented the berth twice so far. In this poll, he will be contesting against Congress’ Lal Singh.
Modi’s announcement faced reactions from the opposition quarters, with former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah asserting that the restoration of statehood was not a favour but an obligation bound by the Supreme Court’s verdict. He underscored the failure of the BJP government to provide a satisfactory explanation for the initial revocation of Jammu and Kashmir’s statehood.
