In Doda Rally, PM Modi Criticizes Congress, PDP, NC; Pledges Statehood for J&K
Doda, 14 Sep: In a fiery speech at a rally in Doda, Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched a scathing attack on the Congress, People’s Democratic Party (PDP), and National Conference (NC), accusing them of destroying Jammu and Kashmir through dynastic politics. Modi’s remarks come as the region prepares for its upcoming assembly elections, marking a critical moment in its political landscape.
Three Dynasties Under Fire
Addressing a large crowd, PM Modi did not hold back in his criticism of the three political families that have dominated Jammu and Kashmir’s politics for decades. Without naming them directly, he referred to the Nehru-Gandhi family of the Congress, the Abdullah family of the NC, and the Mufti family of the PDP. “These three families have destroyed Jammu and Kashmir. They promoted terrorism and corruption, making the region hollow from within,” Modi asserted.
Promoting Grassroots Democracy
Modi highlighted the efforts of his government to promote grassroots democracy in Jammu and Kashmir. He pointed out that it was only after the BJP came to power at the Centre in 2014 that significant local elections, such as the Panchayat, Block Development Council (BDC), and District Development Council (DDC) elections, were held. “We brought democracy to the grassroots level, allowing 30,000 to 35,000 youth to enter politics and take the reins of decision-making in their hands,” Modi said.
Promise of Statehood
In a significant announcement, PM Modi promised that the BJP would grant statehood to Jammu and Kashmir if voted to power. “We are committed to restoring statehood to Jammu and Kashmir. This is not just a promise, but a commitment to the people of this region,” he declared. This pledge is expected to resonate with many voters who have been advocating for the restoration of statehood since the abrogation of Article 370 in August 2019.
Criticism of Past Governance
Modi did not shy away from criticizing the past governance under Congress rule, highlighting the security concerns and lack of development. He recalled the times when even high-ranking officials were afraid to visit certain areas due to the threat of militancy. “Remember the time when an unofficial curfew would be imposed here as soon as the sun set? The situation was such that even the Home Minister of the Congress-led central government was afraid to go to Lal Chowk,” Modi remarked.
A Battle for the Future
The upcoming assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir are being framed as a battle between the old dynastic politics and a new era of development and democracy. Modi’s speech in Doda sets the tone for a high-stakes electoral contest, with the BJP positioning itself as the party of change and progress.
Bottom-Line
As Jammu and Kashmir heads towards its assembly elections, PM Modi’s strong words and promises of statehood are likely to shape the political discourse. The BJP’s focus on grassroots democracy and development presents a stark contrast to the dynastic politics of the past, setting the stage for a pivotal election in the region’s history.
