Nanded, Nov 9: Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in a rally in Maharashtra's Nanded, strongly criticized the National Conference (NC) and the Congress, alleging that these parties prioritize the special status of Jammu and Kashmir under Article 370 over the development and integration of the region with the rest of India. His remarks came shortly after a resolution was passed in the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly, demanding the restoration of the special status.
Article 370 and Progress in J&K
Speaking at the rally, PM Modi highlighted the achievements in Jammu and Kashmir since the abrogation of Article 370 in August 2019. He asserted that the removal of Article 370 has strengthened democracy in the Union Territory and significantly curbed terrorism. "Since Article 370 was removed, democracy has strengthened, and terrorism has been reduced," he said, emphasizing the increased sense of normalcy with public celebrations such as Diwali in Srinagar's Lal Chowk.
Pakistan’s Stance and Congress’s Alleged Support
PM Modi also claimed that Pakistan has been attempting to gather international support for the reinstatement of Article 370 but has faced limited success. However, he argued that Congress’s support for the recent resolution in the J&K Assembly effectively aids Pakistan's agenda. “For the first time after 75 years of independence, Dalits got their rights in J&K. Pakistan was most troubled by this, and next was Congress,” he stated.
The Prime Minister urged the crowd to hold Congress accountable, particularly in light of upcoming elections, for what he described as actions that align with Pakistan’s stance on Article 370.
Call to Action Ahead of Maharashtra Assembly Elections
The rally also served as a campaign push for the BJP ahead of the Maharashtra Assembly elections on November 20, 2024. Modi criticized Congress and urged voters to “teach them a lesson,” accusing them of compromising on national unity for political gain.
In previous elections, the BJP held a strong position, winning 105 seats in 2019 and 122 seats in 2014, while Congress trailed with 44 and 42 seats, respectively.
Conclusion
Prime Minister Modi’s speech in Nanded underscores a continued emphasis on national integration and the importance of maintaining a unified stance on Jammu and Kashmir. The debate surrounding Article 370 remains central to political discourse, with the BJP positioning itself as the defender of unity and development in the Union Territory while challenging Congress’s stance on the issue.