In a spirited address to large crowds in Ramban and Banihal, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh outlined the BJP’s vision for Jammu and Kashmir, emphasizing development and integration. He promised that under BJP rule, Jammu and Kashmir would become so developed that people from Pakistan-occupied Jammu Kashmir (PoJK) would themselves seek to join India.
Key Statements from Rajnath Singh’s Address:
Vision for PoJK: Rajnath Singh expressed a bold vision, stating that the BJP aims to make Jammu and Kashmir so prosperous that the residents of PoJK would wish to join India. He criticized Pakistan for considering PoJK residents as foreigners and invited them to be a part of India, which considers them as its own.
Dialogue with Pakistan: The Defence Minister stated that India is open to dialogue with Pakistan, provided that Pakistan halts its support for terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir. He clarified that improved relations with Pakistan are contingent on Pakistan ceasing its support for terrorist activities.
Election Dynamics: Singh emphasized the importance of the upcoming Assembly elections, noting that voter turnout has increased significantly since the abrogation of Article 370. He confidently asserted that the BJP is poised to form the next government with a clear majority.
Article 370 and Security: Singh strongly defended the abrogation of Article 370, claiming that it was crucial for ending the region’s misery and fostering prosperity. He dismissed opposition claims about restoring Article 370, asserting that it will not be reinstated under BJP rule. Singh also highlighted the decline in terrorism and the improved security situation in the region since August 2019.
Infrastructure and Development: The Defence Minister praised the Modi government’s focus on infrastructure development, including roads, railways, and connectivity projects. He cited recent improvements, such as the G20 event in Srinagar, as evidence of the region’s progress and the government’s commitment to transforming Jammu and Kashmir.
Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh’s Address:
Union Minister of State in the Prime Minister’s Office, Dr Jitendra Singh, supported Rajnath Singh’s statements and highlighted the BJP’s equitable approach to welfare. He criticized the Congress for its past practices of religious and communal bias and praised the BJP’s focus on objective criteria for distributing state benefits.
Highlights from Dr Jitendra Singh’s Speech:
Welfare and Development: Dr Singh emphasized that BJP’s welfare schemes are inclusive and reach all communities, contrasting this with the Congress’s historically biased approach. He also noted the significant development in Banihal, highlighting the construction of roads and tunnels that have transformed the region.
Political Critique: Dr Singh criticized the previous NC and Congress governments for neglecting peripheral regions like Banihal. He appealed to voters to support the BJP to ensure continued development and secure future for their children.
Defence Minister’s Praise for Dr Jitendra Singh:
Rajnath Singh showered praise on Dr Jitendra Singh, describing him as a highly capable politician whose speeches in Parliament command respect. Singh highlighted Dr Singh’s calm demeanor and effectiveness as an MP, affirming his admiration for his colleague’s contributions.
In Summary:
The BJP’s election campaign in Jammu and Kashmir is marked by strong promises of development and integration, coupled with a firm stance against terrorism. The party’s focus on transforming the region into a model of prosperity is central to its electoral strategy, with prominent leaders underscoring their commitment to progress and security.
