Jammu, 06-09-2024: Union Home Minister Amit Shah reaffirmed that India will not engage in talks with Pakistan until terrorism is completely eradicated, emphasizing that “talks and bombs cannot go together.” He made these remarks while unveiling the BJP’s manifesto for the Jammu and Kashmir assembly elections, declaring that Article 370 has become a thing of the past and will never return. Shah stressed that despite the continued push by opposition parties like the National Conference (NC) and the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) for dialogue with Pakistan and the restoration of Article 370, the government remains firm on its stand against such moves.
Shah highlighted the major drop in terror incidents and stone-pelting in Jammu and Kashmir, noting that after the abrogation of Article 370, peace and development have taken center stage. “Article 370 is history. We will never bring it back,” Shah declared. He added that the government is open to talks with the youth of Kashmir but not with Pakistan, while terrorism persists.
The Home Minister also criticized the NC-Congress alliance, labeling it an “anti-development” and “corruption-driven” coalition that fosters terrorism. Shah questioned Congress leader Rahul Gandhi’s silence over NC’s manifesto, which advocates for the return of Article 370 and the release of stone-pelters. He demanded that Gandhi clarify his stance on this issue and accused past governments of promoting separatism.
Shah, in Jammu to launch the BJP’s election campaign, spoke about the significant progress made in the Union Territory over the past decade. He revealed that between 2014 and 2024, there was a 70% drop in terror-related incidents, with civilian and security force casualties seeing sharp declines. Stone-pelting incidents, once widespread, have been virtually eliminated since August 2019, when Jammu and Kashmir’s special status was revoked.
Additionally, Shah highlighted the surge in tourism, with Kashmir seeing a revival of activities such as night shows and the lifting of a 32-year ban on Shia processions. The Amarnath Yatra and Vaishno Devi pilgrimage have also witnessed record attendance, reflecting the region’s growing stability.
Addressing concerns about reservations for Gujjars, Bakerwals, Paharis, OBCs, and Dalits, Shah assured the public that these quotas would remain untouched, refuting claims from the NC’s manifesto. He directly challenged NC leader Omar Abdullah’s decision to contest two seats, suggesting that Abdullah’s fear of losing has driven him to such a move.
Shah also discussed the ongoing efforts to rehabilitate displaced Kashmiri Pandits, stating that the government is working on a permanent settlement policy and addressing properties sold under duress during the height of militancy.
On the restoration of statehood, Shah reiterated that it will be reinstated at an appropriate time, dismissing claims that the demand for statehood is being used to mislead the public. He also rebuffed Rahul Gandhi’s comments on “outsiders” ruling Jammu and Kashmir, pointing out that Congress governments had imposed more presidential rule than any other.
In closing, Shah ruled out the possibility of a coalition government in the upcoming elections, affirming that the BJP aims for a decisive victory and that the era of dynastic politics involving the NC, PDP, and Congress is over. He confidently expressed that under Narendra Modi’s leadership, Jammu and Kashmir is on a clear path to peace, development, and lasting stability.