In a recent interview, Union Minister of Coal and Mines and BJP’s election in-charge for Jammu & Kashmir, G K Reddy, reiterated the Government of India’s unwavering resolve to reclaim Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK). Reddy blamed the previous Congress governments for the loss of territory to Pakistan, accusing them of committing a historical blunder by handing over a significant portion of the erstwhile state to Pakistan in their bid to appease the National Conference (NC) and Pakistan.

Reddy emphasized that the BJP remains committed to retrieving PoJK, referencing the joint Parliamentary resolution passed in 1994, which declared PoJK as an integral part of India. He highlighted the BJP’s firm stance by pointing out that 24 seats have been reserved in the J&K Assembly for PoJK, signifying the national commitment to regain the lost territory.

J&K’s Transformation After Article 370 Abrogation

According to Reddy, the abrogation of Article 370 has brought about significant positive changes in Jammu and Kashmir. He asserted that peace has been restored, and the Union Territory (UT) is now on a rapid path to development. Unlike the years of turmoil, there have been no reports of strikes, terrorist attacks, bomb blasts, or stone-pelting incidents in recent years. He credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government for this transformation, stating that Article 370 was a major obstacle to J&K’s progress, and its removal has paved the way for unprecedented development.

Reddy pointed to the revival of the tourism industry as one of the major achievements post-abrogation. He mentioned that over 400 films, including Hindi and animated movies, have been shot in Kashmir Valley since Article 370 was scrapped. Additionally, more than two crore tourists visited Kashmir last year, reflecting the region’s improved security situation and attractiveness to visitors.

The Role of Strong Leadership

The minister praised PM Modi for his strong leadership, particularly in dealing with Pakistan. Reddy noted that under Modi’s government, India has isolated Pakistan on the global stage, with the world recognizing Pakistan as a terrorist-sponsoring state. Reddy contrasted this with the Congress era, where, according to him, the government was hesitant to confront Pakistan.

He also criticized the National Conference and Congress for supporting dialogue with Pakistan, stating that past negotiations with Pakistan had only led to betrayal. Reddy made it clear that the BJP opposes such talks, citing instances of backstabbing during the Vajpayee government when Pakistan failed to honor its commitments.

A Call for New Leadership in J&K

Reddy urged the people of J&K to reject dynastic political parties like the National Conference and the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), which he accused of ruining the state over the years. He called for the emergence of new leadership in the UT and emphasized the BJP’s developmental agenda, highlighting the establishment of institutions like AIIMS, IIT, IIMs, Jambu Zoo, and the construction of expressways, flyovers, medical colleges, and thousands of houses for houseless families.

He also expressed disappointment with the local BJP leadership for not effectively communicating the party’s development narrative to the people. Nevertheless, he expressed confidence that the people of J&K would give a decisive mandate to the BJP in the upcoming elections, citing their desire for peace, prosperity, and progress.

In response to a question about the mysterious death of Bharatiya Jana Sangh (BJS) founder Dr. Syama Prasad Mookerjee, Reddy reiterated the BJP’s pledge to release a White Paper on all terrorist killings in J&K since 1947, including Dr. Mookerjee’s case.

Conclusion

Union Minister G K Reddy’s remarks underscore the BJP’s focus on reclaiming PoJK, strengthening security, and fostering development in J&K post-Article 370. His criticism of Congress and the regional dynastic parties reflects the BJP’s push for new leadership and its vision for the future of Jammu and Kashmir.

Former Union Minister and prominent BJP leader Anurag Thakur led a massive election rally today, lending crucial support to Dr. Devinder Kumar Manyal, the BJP candidate from the Ramgarh Assembly constituency.

The rally, which commenced from Rajpura Chowk and passed through Pangdour and Koulpur, culminated near Rishi Farms in Ramgarh. It witnessed a huge turnout of enthusiastic locals, signaling overwhelming support for Dr. Manyal’s candidacy.

BJP’s Vision for Development

Speaking at the rally, Anurag Thakur urged the voters to cast their ballots for Dr. Devinder Kumar Manyal, emphasizing that BJP’s commitment to development, prosperity, and progress would uplift Ramgarh’s future. He stated, “A vote for Dr. Manyal is a vote for a brighter and more prosperous future.”

Thakur’s presence, as a key BJP leader and former Union Minister, significantly boosted Dr. Manyal’s campaign, as locals gathered in droves to show their support. Along the rally route, crowds cheered and expressed solidarity with BJP’s agenda, underscoring Dr. Manyal’s strong local connection and grassroots understanding of Ramgarh’s needs.

Strong Local Roots

Dr. Devinder Kumar Manyal, a well-known figure in the region, has deep roots in the Ramgarh constituency. His knowledge of local issues and dedication to the community has resonated with voters, making him a popular candidate. Thakur emphasized this local connection in his speech, assuring voters that Dr. Manyal’s leadership would prioritize progressive policies tailored to Ramgarh’s unique challenges.

Thakur’s Criticism of PDP and Other Opposition Parties

In a media interaction following the rally, Anurag Thakur sharply criticized PDP leader Mehbooba Mufti for cancelling her campaign rally, allegedly “in solidarity with the martyrs of Lebanon and Gaza.” He remarked, “These are the same parties that supported separatists and terrorists and encouraged stone pelting incidents.”

Thakur went on to lambast opposition parties such as the National Conference (NC), People’s Democratic Party (PDP), and Congress for their historical support of terrorism. He pointed out that these parties appear to be concerned about international conflicts like Gaza but are blind to the atrocities faced by Hindus in Dhaka and the loss of innocent lives due to terrorism in India.

Condemnation of Vote-Bank Politics

Thakur also condemned political parties for what he called appeasement politics, accusing them of prioritizing vote-bank interests over national security. He criticized PDP for canceling its rally, suggesting that the party’s action reflected its alignment with pro-terrorism sentiments rather than democratic principles. “They don’t see the killing of thousands of people by terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir. These parties oppose action against terrorism, while our army is fully committed to eliminating terrorism,” Thakur asserted.

Confidence in BJP’s Success

With the backing of Anurag Thakur’s influence and Dr. Manyal’s strong local connect, the BJP is confident of making a significant impact in the upcoming elections. Thakur’s powerful rhetoric, focusing on security, development, and a united front against terrorism, resonated deeply with voters, further solidifying BJP’s position in the Ramgarh constituency.

Dr. Devinder Kumar Manyal assured voters that, if elected, he would work tirelessly to meet the expectations of the people and drive the development of the region. Thakur reiterated this message, concluding the rally with an impassioned plea to voters: “Vote for Dr. Manyal to ensure a future of peace, progress, and prosperity for Ramgarh.”

Union Minister of Law and Justice, Arjun Ram Meghwal, revealed that the government may consider ordering a probe into the mysterious death of Dr. Syama Prasad Mookherjee, founder-president of Bharatiya Jana Sangh, in Srinagar Jail in 1953.

Speaking at the sidelines of an election rally held at Hiranagar in support of BJP candidate Vijay Sharma, Meghwal responded to growing calls for an investigation, noting that demands have come from multiple quarters.

He stated, “The demand for a probe was raised earlier by BJS leaders and Dr. Mookherjee’s relatives, but it was averted by the then Prime Minister, Jawahar Lal Nehru.” The Union Minister confirmed that the current government will take the matter under consideration.

Constitution and Article 370

Addressing the concerns raised by the opposition, Meghwal assured the public that BJP is not planning to change the Constitution or alter reservation policies. He cited Congress leader Rahul Gandhi’s comments in the US on reservations as misleading, asserting that Congress has amended the Constitution several times to suit its interests.

Meghwal turned his attention to the controversial Article 370 and 35-A, which were incorporated during Nehru’s rule, claiming they hindered the progress of Jammu and Kashmir. He emphasized that the abrogation of Article 370 under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government has brought substantial development and prosperity to the Union Territory.

Development in Jammu and Kashmir

Meghwal highlighted that the implementation of Central laws in Jammu and Kashmir post-Article 370’s removal has been beneficial to the people of the region. He cited a record number of 2.5 crore tourists visiting Kashmir, crediting the BJP government’s efforts in restoring normalcy to the Valley.

The Union Minister urged voters to disregard the baseless propaganda spread by opposition parties, claiming their allegations are merely part of an election stunt. Meghwal concluded by appealing to the people to vote for Vijay Sharma, praising his longstanding commitment to public service.

Vijay Sharma’s Commitment

Vijay Sharma, addressing the rally, vowed to work for the development of the constituency and to meet the expectations of the people. He assured the electorate that a vote for BJP is a vote for peace and prosperity in the region.

Jammu, Sept 28, 2024: Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during a rally in Jammu, criticized Congress for failing to value the sacrifices made by Indian soldiers. He accused the party of neglecting the demands of the armed forces, including the ‘One Rank, One Pension’ scheme, which he claimed was ignored for over four decades.

“Congress never valued and respected the sacrifices our brave soldiers made for the nation,” said PM Modi, addressing a large gathering.

“Congress Responded to Firing from Across the Border with White Flags,” Says PM Modi

In a sharp attack on the Congress party, PM Modi claimed that whenever there was cross-border firing, Congress resorted to raising white flags as a sign of surrender. He contrasted this by saying that under BJP rule, India has responded with force and determination.

“When we came to power, we fired back. Congress used to raise white flags,” he stated during the rally.

Campaigning for Third Phase of J&K Polls Concludes Tomorrow

Campaigning for the third phase of the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly elections is set to conclude tomorrow. In this phase, 40 constituencies will go to the polls on October 1, with vote counting scheduled for October 8.

PM Modi Criticizes Rahul Gandhi in Srinagar Rally

Prime Minister Modi also took aim at Congress leader Rahul Gandhi for his remarks made during a visit to the United States. Modi accused Gandhi of insulting Indian faith by making controversial statements about Hindu deities.

“The Congress heir went abroad and said that our ‘devi-devta’ are not gods… It is an insult to our faith,” said PM Modi, referring to a statement made by Gandhi earlier.

Key Highlights:

PM Modi accuses Congress of ignoring the demands of soldiers for decades.
Claims Congress responded to cross-border firing with white flags.
Campaigning for the third phase of J&K elections concludes tomorrow.
PM Modi criticizes Rahul Gandhi’s remarks on Hindu deities.

As Jammu and Kashmir approaches the final phase of polling, with voters in 40 Assembly constituencies set to cast their ballots on October 1, Union Minister of Coal and Mines and J&K Assembly election in-charge G Kishan Reddy has emphasized the BJP’s focus on ensuring the positive transformation brought about by the abrogation of Article 370 continues.

While inspecting arrangements at the Maulana Azad Stadium in Jammu, where Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address the BJP Vijay Sankalp Rally on September 28, Reddy declared that the BJP is not hungry for power but rather aims to prevent the return of dynastic politics.

“We will end the rule of three families forever; now the ‘Aam Janta’ (common people) of Jammu and Kashmir will rule,” said Reddy.
“After the removal of Article 370, everything has been snatched away from the family-oriented parties, so it is natural for them to be furious.”

Change in the Air
G. Kishan Reddy highlighted the significant shift in the political landscape since the abrogation of Article 370, stressing that the people of Jammu and Kashmir no longer have to endure the destructive policies of the Abdullah, Mufti, and Congress families. He pointed out that during the rule of these three families, the region was plagued by organized strikes, stone-pelting, and terrorism.

“The hands holding the laptops will continue to progress. We have to take this development journey forward. The public has to decide whether to get out of the hands of Abdullah, Mufti, and Congress or not,” Reddy remarked.

Ending Dynastic Rule
Reddy strongly reiterated the BJP’s stance against family rule, noting that power must be restored to the people rather than remaining concentrated among a few political families.

“BJP has no A or B team; our only team is the people of Jammu and Kashmir,” he declared.
“The era of stone pelting, organized hartals, and terrorist activities should not return.”

Visible Development
The Union Minister noted the visible development in Jammu and Kashmir, attributing this transformation to the removal of Article 370. He accused the previous regimes of suppressing people’s rights, allowing the looting of resources, and fostering anti-national activities.

“Under the guise of 370, the rights of the poor were looted. There were organized hartals, schools were burnt down, and Pakistan’s flag was hoisted. This has completely stopped now,” Reddy said.

He also criticized the policies of former Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru, holding them responsible for the hardships faced by the people due to Article 370.

“Article 370 was Jinnah’s Constitution, in place of which PM Modi has implemented Baba Saheb’s Constitution. The supporters of 370 want to talk to Pakistan and end reservations,” he added.
“Now, for the last five years, every penny contributed by the Government of India is being accounted for.”

Growing Political Presence
Reddy also pointed out that more than 60 BJP candidates are contesting in the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly elections, marking a significant political presence across every district of the region. He expressed confidence that the public would support BJP based on the party’s developmental work.

“The BJP has ushered in an era of balanced political, social, and economic development by ending systematic discrimination against the Jammu region. This time, Jammu will get due justice for the decades of discrimination,” Reddy said.

He also noted that the number of seats in the Jammu region has increased from 37 to 43 following the delimitation process, and the party plans to establish three regional development boards in Jammu to ensure balanced growth across the region.

Key Phrases:

“We will end the rule of three families forever.”
“BJP has no A or B team; our only team is the people of Jammu and Kashmir.”
“The era of stone pelting, organized hartals, and terrorist activities should not return.”
“Article 370 was Jinnah’s Constitution; PM Modi has implemented Baba Saheb’s Constitution.”
“This time, Jammu will get due justice for the decades of discrimination.”