PM Modi Criticizes Key Political Families Ahead of Jammu and Kashmir Elections

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, while speaking at a public meeting in Srinagar on September 19, 2024, commended the voters in Jammu and Kashmir for their enthusiastic participation in the elections. Despite historical political challenges, PM Modi expressed his appreciation for a high voter turnout and emphasized the successful conduct of the first phase of voting “without the shadow of terrorism.” This, he stated, signals the resilience of democracy in the region.

Addressing the crowd, PM Modi criticized the influence of long-standing political families, namely the Gandhis, Abdullahs, and Muftis, accusing them of fostering instability over the past three decades. He reiterated the promise made in Parliament to restore statehood to Jammu and Kashmir, emphasizing the Bharatiya Janata Party‘s (BJP) commitment to this goal. “It’s the BJP that will fulfill this commitment of restoring Statehood,” Modi declared, urging citizens to vote for the BJP in the upcoming phase on September 25.

The Prime Minister highlighted the progress in Kashmir, citing improvements such as increased tourism, cultural festivities, and educational infrastructure. He mentioned that the atmosphere in Kashmir has transformed significantly, attributing this to the efforts of its people. PM Modi criticized regional parties, such as the National Conference (NC) and the People's Democratic Party (PDP), for their roles in the migration of Kashmiri Pandits and for maintaining a “political fiefdom.”

PM Modi further addressed a gathering in Katra, reinforcing his call for voters to support the BJP. During his speech, he accused the Congress, NC, and PDP of aligning with “Pakistan’s agenda” in Jammu and Kashmir, which he claims have brought misery and bloodshed to the region. He assured that with the BJP in power, no force could reinstate Article 370 and Article 35A.

The Prime Minister also conveyed his condolences to the family of Shafi Pandit, the first Indian Administrative Service officer from Kashmir who had recently passed away. In his speeches, PM Modi emphasized promoting employment, education, and infrastructure development in Jammu and Kashmir, highlighting that “youths have pens and not stones in their hands.” He urged the public to vote wisely, aligning with the BJP’s vision for a new and prosperous Jammu and Kashmir.