Union Home Minister Amit Shah has reaffirmed the commitment of the Indian government to restore statehood to Jammu and Kashmir following the upcoming assembly elections. Speaking at a rally in Jammu on Saturday, Shah emphasized that these elections will be the first conducted under the national flag and the Constitution since the Modi administration abrogated Article 370 in August 2019, which had previously granted special status to the region.
During his address, Shah criticized the Congress-National Conference alliance, accusing them of attempting to reinstate the “old system” that he claims has been detrimental to the region. He asserted that the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) government would not permit the resurgence of terrorism or any form of autonomy that could lead to injustice against various communities, including Gujjars, Pahari, Bakerwals, and Dalits, who have benefited from reservations under the current administration.
Shah’s visit to Jammu is part of a two-day campaign to bolster the BJP’s efforts ahead of the assembly elections, which are set to begin on September 18. On the first day of his visit, he released the party’s manifesto and held meetings with senior leaders to strategize for the upcoming polls.
Shah characterized the forthcoming elections as historic, noting that they mark the first instance since India’s Independence where elections are being held under a unified national framework, without the dual flags and constitutions that characterized the previous governance of Jammu and Kashmir. He stated, “We have only one prime minister from Kashmir to Kanyakumari, and he is Modi,” reinforcing the BJP’s narrative of national unity.
He also highlighted the significant reduction in terrorist activities in the region, claiming a 70% decrease since the abrogation of Article 370. Shah expressed confidence that the National Conference and Congress would not be able to form a government in Jammu and Kashmir, urging BJP workers to ensure the party’s success in the elections.
Amit Shah’s statements reflect the BJP’s strategy to frame the upcoming assembly elections as a pivotal moment for Jammu and Kashmir, focusing on themes of unity, development, and security. The party aims to consolidate its position in the region by emphasizing the achievements since the abrogation of Article 370 and by appealing to the electorate’s desire for stability and progress.