Former Union Minister and senior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Anurag Thakur expressed strong optimism regarding the future development of Jammu and Kashmir (J&K), projecting that the region will rank among the top three most developed and progressive states in India within the next five years. This assertion was made during a rally at Excise Toll Plaza in Nagrota, coinciding with the nomination filing of BJP candidate Devender Rana.
Thakur emphasized the BJP’s commitment to advancing J&K’s progress, highlighting the importance of restoring normalcy and consolidating peace following the abrogation of Article 370. He called for votes and support for the BJP to facilitate this vision, stating, “J&K is witnessing the coming up of IITs, IIMs, IICs, Medical and Nursing Colleges apart from holistic development on all fronts.
In his address, Thakur criticized the National Conference (NC), Congress, and the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) for their stance on Article 370, asserting that the article would not be reinstated as long as Prime Minister Narendra Modi is in power. He accused these parties of enabling terrorism and separatism, claiming they were responsible for a resurgence in violence and instability in the region. Thakur stated, “Their thirst for blood does not seem to have quenched after the death of over 45,000 people in violence,” referring to the historical context of violence in J&K.
He further condemned the opposition for seeking the repeal of the Public Safety Act (PSA), suggesting that such actions would only serve to undermine the progress made in J&K. Thakur characterized the opposition’s actions as part of a “nefarious agenda” that has historically led to violence and instability in the region.
Thakur’s remarks were not only a critique of the opposition but also a rallying cry for the BJP’s supporters. He expressed confidence that the Nagrota constituency would emerge as a stronghold for the BJP in the upcoming elections, scheduled for October 8. He noted the large turnout at the rally as a sign of the constituency’s commitment to the party’s vision for a prosperous J&K .
In conclusion, Anurag Thakur’s statements reflect a strategic push by the BJP to consolidate its narrative around development and security in J&K, framing the upcoming elections as crucial for realizing the region’s potential under the current government.