Defence Minister Rajnath Singh emphasized that the upcoming assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir represent a significant moment for India’s democracy and strength. Speaking at a public rally in Gurez, Bandipore, he noted that if relations had been better, India would have provided more financial assistance to Pakistan than what it has sought from the International Monetary Fund (IMF).
He highlighted the Prime Minister’s Development Package (PMDP), initiated by PM Modi in 2015, stating, “The PM package has grown so substantial that it exceeds what Pakistan requested from the IMF.” Citing former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, he remarked, “You can change friends but not neighbors,” reinforcing the notion that stronger ties could have led to greater cooperation.
Rajnath Singh also accused Pakistan of being involved in terrorism in Kashmir, asserting that despite repeated requests from the Indian government to dismantle terrorist camps on its soil, Pakistan has failed to act. He warned that India is prepared to confront terrorism decisively, even if it means crossing borders.
Addressing local residents, he expressed confidence in their resilience, stating, “Pakistan does not want democracy in Jammu and Kashmir, but with your courage, I believe democracy here cannot be weakened.” He reiterated a strong message to those plotting attacks against India: “If there’s a terrorist attack, we will respond wherever they are.”
Turning his attention to the opposition, Singh criticized the National Conference (NC) and Congress for promising to restore Article 370. “Only the Central Government has the authority to bring it back. Since its removal, there has been enthusiastic participation in elections, signaling a change in Jammu and Kashmir,” he said. He noted the return of the national flag to Lal Chowk in Srinagar and a surge in tourism, stating, “Kashmir is no longer a terrorist hotspot but a tourism hotspot. Two political families have focused solely on their interests while neglecting the people.”
He concluded with a hopeful vision for the youth, emphasizing that they are now engaged with technology, not violence. “Institutions like IIMs and IITs will be established here. The NC, Congress, and PDP have only enriched themselves while neglecting the needs of the people,” he asserted. He quoted Vajpayee, saying, “When Insaniyat, Jamuhriyat, and Kashmiriyat unite, no one can stop Kashmir from becoming heaven again,” and expressed his desire for full voter participation in the elections, ensuring that “not a single person is left who doesn’t vote.”
