Prime Minister Narendra Modi addresses a public meeting in Srinagar ahead of the upcoming Jammu and Kashmir Assembly elections, on September 19, 2024.
In a significant address in Srinagar on Thursday, September 19, 2024, Prime Minister Narendra Modi applauded the electorate for their remarkable turnout during the first phase of the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly elections. He criticized prominent political families for the decades of instability in the region and reiterated his commitment to restoring Statehood to J&K.
“Jammu and Kashmir is experiencing a true democracy festival. The first voting phase was peaceful and free from terrorism influences. Record participation was seen with Kishtwar witnessing 80%, Doda and Ramban at 70%, and Kulgam 62% voter turnout. This reflects a transformative desire among the people of J&K, showcasing their commitment to strengthening Indian democracy,” stated PM Modi.
During a rally at the She-i-Kashmir Cricket Stadium to support party candidates, he promised that the BJP would fulfill its pledge regarding Statehood restoration.
“The BJP stands for a peaceful and prosperous Kashmir. I urge everyone to vote in large numbers for the BJP on September 25,” he added.
Attracting hundreds of enthusiastic supporters, PM Modi highlighted the positive changes in Kashmir over recent years. “Gone are the days when film shoots were halted and celebrations were largely muted. Now, Eid and Diwali are celebrated vibrantly, and public spaces in Lal Chowk are bustling even at night. The rise in tourism illustrates the region’s peaceful environment,” he remarked.
Addressing the migration of Kashmiri Pandits, PM Modi asserted that certain regional parties are responsible for their displacement, emphasizing the vital cultural contribution of the Pandit community. “They were subjected to fear and left homeless due to the negligence of these dynasties,” he stated.
Continuing his critique of political dynasties, he emphasized that their political agenda promotes fear. “These families have historically treated J&K as their personal domain, stifling opportunities for others to engage in governance,” he said. “The youth are now stepping forward to challenge this status quo.”
PM Modi articulated his goal to liberate J&K from the political dominance of a few families. “The time has come for the people to reclaim their rights and re-establish faith in democracy,” he remarked.
Promising a bright future, he vowed to work toward a terror-free J&K and local employment generation. “Our focus is on education and development, with youths engaging in constructive activities rather than violence,” he affirmed.
He noted the increasing connectivity through railways and the rise of local enterprises, fostering economic growth.
Despite historical challenges, PM Modi asserted, “Kashmir has not seen the kind of unrest experienced in previous decades. We must look forward, not backward, to a time when rights and local governance prevailed.”
He concluded with promises of enhanced services including free electricity and increased health insurance coverage, urging citizens to support the BJP in the upcoming elections.
In a moment of remembrance, PM Modi expressed condolences for the late Shafi Pandit, the first IAS officer from Kashmir, who passed away recently.
Published – September 19, 2024 02:56 pm IST
