J&K People Write a New Chapter: PM Modi’s Vision for Jammu and Kashmir

In a landmark speech delivered ahead of the second phase of the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly elections on September 19, 2024, Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised the voters for their overwhelming participation in the first phase of the elections. Speaking in Srinagar, he highlighted how the people of Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) have embraced democracy and are shaping a new future for the region, breaking away from decades of unrest.

Record Voter Turnout: A Step Towards Peace

PM Modi began by applauding the large voter turnout during the first phase of voting, especially in areas like Kishtwar, which saw 80% voter participation, Doda and Ramban with 70%, and Kulgam with 62%. He expressed his satisfaction with the peaceful nature of the elections, noting how people voted freely, without the looming threat of terrorism. He remarked, “J&K is witnessing a festival of democracy. Compared to previous elections, new records have been set, reflecting the rising aspirations of the people. The world is witnessing how J&K is strengthening Indian democracy."

The End of Article 370 and 35A

Reaffirming his stance on Article 370 and 35A, which were abrogated in 2019, PM Modi stressed that these provisions would never return as long as the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) remains in power. Article 370 had granted special status to J&K, while Article 35A allowed the state to define its own "permanent residents." Modi assured that these articles are gone forever and that no power in the world could restore them.

A Promise of Restoring Statehood

Addressing the local population’s concerns, PM Modi reiterated the BJP’s commitment to restoring statehood to J&K, a promise he said would be fulfilled in time. He pointed out that the BJP is focused on creating a peaceful and prosperous Kashmir, encouraging voters to come out in large numbers for the second phase of elections, scheduled for September 25.

Past Failures: A Critique of Regional Parties

PM Modi did not hold back in criticizing the regional political dynasties—the Gandhis, Abdullahs, and Muftis—accusing them of being responsible for three decades of instability in J&K. He argued that these families had treated the region as their personal fiefdom, creating an environment of fear and disruption.

“They think ruling over J&K is their birthright,” Modi said. “For years, these families have looted the people and failed to provide real opportunities for development. The youth of J&K are now breaking free from these chains, and the future belongs to them.”

The Exodus of Kashmiri Pandits

One of the most significant points PM Modi raised was the tragic migration of Kashmiri Pandits from their homeland in the 1990s. He placed the blame squarely on the regional parties, particularly the National Conference (NC) and the People's Democratic Party (PDP), accusing them of offering protection to those responsible for targeting the minority community. He lauded the role of Kashmiri Pandits in preserving Kashmir’s culture and identity, asserting that they had been left homeless by these political dynasties.

A New Era of Progress and Peace

The Prime Minister highlighted the transformative changes seen in J&K over the past few years. He recalled the days when movie shoots were stopped, cinema halls were closed, and unfurling the tricolor flag at Lal Chowk was a daunting challenge. Today, however, J&K is experiencing a cultural renaissance. Eid and Diwali are celebrated with equal fervor, Muharram processions are allowed, and Lal Chowk is bustling with life late into the evening.

Tourism has reached record levels, a testament to the newfound peace in the region. PM Modi credited the people for creating this conducive atmosphere, stating that they are responsible for the peaceful environment that now prevails.

Education and Employment: A Focus on Youth

PM Modi took a strong stand on the issue of education and employment in J&K, stating that under previous governments, students often failed to pass their school exams and had limited opportunities to study outside the state. He emphasized that this was not the fault of the students but of the previous governments, which had neglected their future.

"My mission is to ensure that J&K is free from the political dominance of these three families," PM Modi said. "I pledge to generate local employment and provide better opportunities for the youth. Schools and colleges are now operating normally, and we no longer hear about students throwing stones or burning schools. Instead, we hear about new infrastructure projects like AIIMS and IITs coming up."

Reducing the Distance Between Dilli and Dil

In a symbolic reference, PM Modi spoke about bridging the gap between Delhi (Dilli) and the hearts of the people of J&K (Dil). He noted that railways are now connecting Kashmir to the rest of the country, helping local products like apples reach markets across India. He also mentioned the successful hosting of sports events like the Khelo India Winter Games and the positive reception of national and international players by the local population.

“This is the true essence of Kashmiriyat,” Modi said, emphasizing the region’s age-old tradition of hospitality and brotherhood.

Freeing J&K from Political Fiefdoms

PM Modi did not shy away from pointing out that the NC and PDP are trying to bring back the “old times” in Kashmir. He referred to the 35 years of turmoil when Kashmir experienced strikes and shutdowns for over 3000 days—equivalent to nearly eight years. In contrast, since the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019, the region has not seen a single day of unrest.

“The youth of J&K do not want to go back to those days of hartals (strikes) and unrest. They want jobs, opportunities, and peace. But these political families want to deny marginalized communities and women their rights. They want to bring back a Kashmir where cinema halls were shut down and schools were burned,” he said.

A Vision for the Future: Healthcare, Electricity, and Development

PM Modi concluded his speech by outlining his vision for the future of J&K. He promised to increase the health insurance coverage for residents from ₹5 lakh to ₹7 lakh and pledged to provide free electricity for certain sections of the population. He urged the people of J&K to vote for the BJP to ensure continued progress and development.

In a heartfelt moment, the Prime Minister also expressed his condolences to the family of Shafi Pandit, the first Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer from Kashmir, who had passed away recently.

A Strong Response to Regional Alliances

In a separate rally in Katra, PM Modi launched a scathing attack on the Congress-NC alliance, accusing them of following Pakistan’s agenda in J&K. He pointed out that Pakistan’s defense minister, Khawaja Asif, had openly supported the Congress-NC stance on Article 370, indicating a close alignment with Pakistan’s interests.

"This alliance wants to implement the same agenda that has brought nothing but bloodshed to J&K. But as long as the BJP is in power, we will not let terrorism or Article 370 return to the region," Modi declared.

The Path Forward

In his final remarks, PM Modi promised to work towards a terror-free Jammu and Kashmir, bringing prosperity to the region and ensuring that the youth have a bright future filled with opportunities. He urged the people to trust in his vision for a peaceful, prosperous, and united J&K.