In a high-energy public address at the Maulana Azad Stadium in Jammu on Saturday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi made a resounding statement ahead of the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly elections. Amidst the final stages of the election campaign, Modi attacked the Congress, National Conference (NC), and Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), accusing them of being the “biggest enemies” of the Indian Constitution. His speech, lasting nearly 45 minutes, called for a new chapter in Jammu and Kashmir’s future, free from corruption, terrorism, and separatism.
Modi Targets Opposition in Fiery Speech
Taking a direct dig at political opponents, Modi accused the Congress, NC, and PDP of fostering decades of instability and conflict in the region. According to him, these parties had enabled the forces of terror and separatism to thrive, neglecting the people of Jammu and Kashmir in the process.
He stated, “The terror mentors know that if they do anything wrong, Modi will find them even in ‘Pataal’ (netherworld).” Referring to the 2016 surgical strikes, he emphasized the BJP government’s tough stance on terrorism, contrasting it with what he described as the Congress’s complacency and inaction. “This is a new India,” he added, “and it strikes right in the enemy’s homes.”
The Promise of a Corruption-Free Future
Modi’s address also echoed the aspirations of the people, who he claimed are yearning for a future devoid of the corruption, nepotism, and terror that have plagued the state for decades. With reference to the high voter turnout in the initial phases of the elections, he remarked that the enthusiasm reflects a demand for change.
He said, “They do not want corruption, discrimination in jobs, terrorism, separatism, and bloodshed. Instead, they want peace and a better future for their children.” This strong message resonated with the audience, many of whom have grown tired of political instability in the region.
Criticism of Past Governments and Allegations Against Congress
PM Modi directed some of his harshest criticism at the Congress, holding them responsible for the decades-long loss caused by terrorism. He claimed that their policies post-Independence had nurtured and emboldened those who wished harm to the nation. Accusing them of betraying the armed forces, he said, “The Congress is responsible for the loss of generations to terrorism. Their wrong policies have encouraged inimical forces.”
He also highlighted the Congress’s questioning of the surgical strikes and its demand for proof. “The Congress speaks Pakistan’s language on surgical strikes. How can you trust a party that disrespects the sacrifices of our soldiers?” Modi asked.
Restoring Rights and Bringing Change to Jammu and Kashmir
In a further appeal to the electorate, Modi reiterated his government’s efforts to restore the rights of historically marginalized communities in Jammu and Kashmir. “The BJP honored the Constitution by giving voting rights to West Pakistani refugees, Gorkhas, and Valmikis, who had been deprived of their fundamental rights by previous governments,” he said. These groups had long lived as second-class citizens under the regimes of Congress, NC, and PDP, he argued.
Modi also emphasized the BJP’s commitment to addressing regional discrimination, particularly against Jammu, which he alleged had been sidelined by successive state governments.
Looking Ahead: A Decisive Phase in J&K Politics
As Jammu and Kashmir prepare for the final phase of voting on October 1, Modi’s speech capped weeks of intense campaigning by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Polling for 40 seats, 24 in Jammu and 16 in Kashmir, will be critical in determining the future of governance in the region.
The stakes are high, with the BJP aiming to secure a historic victory and form the government in Jammu and Kashmir, a region that has seen decades of conflict and political turmoil. Modi’s focus on national security, economic development, and rooting out corruption forms the cornerstone of his appeal to voters, and he urged citizens not to waste this pivotal opportunity for change.
“We are in the city of temples, and the people of Jammu should not waste this chance to create a brighter future,” he said. “A BJP government will address all your issues and bring peace, development, and prosperity to this beautiful region.”
Conclusion: A Call for Change
PM Modi’s address underscored the importance of the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly elections, framing the choice before voters as one between corruption and progress, terror and peace. His rhetoric against Congress, NC, and PDP was sharp, portraying them as obstacles to the region’s growth and stability. As the campaign enters its final stretch, the people of Jammu and Kashmir stand at a crossroads, with Modi’s BJP promising a decisive break from the past.
With the final phase of voting just days away, the political future of Jammu and Kashmir hangs in the balance, as residents cast their ballots with hopes for a better, more secure future under a BJP-led administration.
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