- Talks On Hold Till Militancy Decline, Tourism New Reality In J&K: HM Amit Shah
- Reversing State To UT Historical, Will Fight For Statehood: Rahul
“This week Shah, during the launch of the BJP’s manifesto, firmly declared that India will not enter into dialogue with Pakistan until militancy is fully eradicated, asserting that “talks and bombs cannot coexist.” He emphasized that Article 370, which once granted special status to the region, is irrevocably a thing of the past.”
Mohammad Irfan
In a dramatic start to the election campaign for Jammu and Kashmir, Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Congress leader Rahul Gandhi have outlined their contrasting visions for the J&K’s future. This week Shah, during the launch of the BJP’s manifesto, firmly declared that India will not enter into dialogue with Pakistan until militancy is fully eradicated, asserting that “talks and bombs cannot coexist.” He emphasized that Article 370, which once granted special status to the region, is irrevocably “a thing of the past.” Conversely, Rahul Gandhi, kick-starting the Congress campaign, vowed to restore Jammu and Kashmir’s statehood with the help of the INDIA bloc partners. Gandhi criticized the BJP for its refusal to restore statehood before holding elections, branding the downgrade of Jammu and Kashmir to a Union Territory as a historic reversal. He promised that the Congress-led government would prioritize the return of statehood and expressed a personal commitment to addressing the region’s issues in Parliament.
No Talks With Pakistan Says HM Amit Shah: Union Home Minister Amit Shah made it unequivocally clear that India will not enter into any dialogue with Pakistan until militancy is fully eradicated. Stressing the incompatibility of diplomacy and violence, he stated, “talks and bombs cannot coexist.
BJP Releases Manifesto For J&K: At the launch of the BJP’s manifesto for Jammu and Kashmir, Shah dismissed the possibility of talks with Pakistan in light of ongoing militant activities in the region. He emphasized that Article 370, which granted special status to Jammu and Kashmir, is now “a thing of the past” and will never be reinstated.
Commitment to Kashmir’s Youth Amid Rejection of Pakistan Dialogue: While ruling out talks with Pakistan, Shah assured that the government is keen on engaging with the youth of Kashmir to address their aspirations and concerns. He highlighted the government’s ongoing efforts to promote development, education, and job opportunities in the region, signaling that the youth will play a central role in shaping Kashmir’s future, free from the influence of militancy.
HM Slams NC-Cong Alliance: Shah did not shy away from taking a strong stand against the National Conference (NC) and the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) for advocating talks with Pakistan and pushing for the restoration of cross-LoC trade. He also called out Congress leader Rahul Gandhi for his silence on the NC’s manifesto, which seeks to restore Article 370. Shah demanded clarity from the Congress, questioning whether they supported the NC’s agenda and calling for an unequivocal response.
Peace, Dev, Social Justice Post-Article 370 Abrogation: Shah highlighted the return of peace, development, and social justice to Jammu and Kashmir following the abrogation of Article 370. He accused previous governments of bowing to separatist forces, contrasting it with the current administration’s efforts to bring stability to the region. He credited the BJP’s policies with restoring normalcy and safeguarding the rights of the region’s citizens, while ensuring that the separatist influence has waned significantly.
Decline In Militant Related Incidents: The home minister presented data reflecting a dramatic 70 percent reduction in terror-related incidents between 2014 and 2024. He noted that civilian casualties had dropped by 80 percent, while attacks on security forces had also seen a significant decrease. Shah pointed out that stone-pelting, once rampant in the region, has completely ceased since the revocation of Article 370 in 2019.
Tourism Boom In Kashmir: Shah highlighted a resurgence in Kashmir’s tourism sector, which had been crippled for decades due to conflict. He noted that night shows are now common, Shia processions have been held after a 32-year gap, and record numbers of pilgrims attended the Amarnath Yatra and Vaishno Devi pilgrimage.
No Concerns About Separatists In Politics: Addressing concerns about the potential involvement of separatists in politics, Shah expressed confidence that their influence has diminished. He stated that the people of Jammu and Kashmir have embraced Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision for a terror-free, prosperous region. Shah indicated that the separatist agenda no longer holds sway in Jammu and Kashmir, as citizens now look to development and peace.
Reservation For Gujjars, Bakerwals, Paharis: Shah provided reassurances that the reservations granted to Gujjars, Bakerwals, Paharis, OBCs, and Dalits would remain intact, despite contradictions in the NC’s manifesto. He issued a firm warning to Omar Abdullah, stating that no attempts to alter these reservations would be tolerated. Shah’s comments underscore the government’s commitment to protecting the rights and representation of marginalized communities in Jammu and Kashmir.
Statehood, Permanent Settlement For Kashmiri Migrants: On the restoration of statehood, Shah reaffirmed that Jammu and Kashmir’s status will be restored at the right time. He added that efforts are already underway to create a permanent settlement policy for displaced Kashmiri migrants. Shah also mentioned ongoing initiatives to recover properties that were sold under duress during the height of militancy.
Response To Rahul Gandhi’s Comments On Outsiders Ruling J&K: Shah responded to Rahul Gandhi’s claim that “outsiders” were ruling Jammu and Kashmir by pointing out that presidential rule was more frequent under Congress regimes.
No Suppression in Kashmir, Rejection of Dynastic Politics: Dismissing Omar Abdullah’s claim that Muslims are being suppressed in the valley, Shah categorically stated that there is no such suppression taking place in Kashmir. He also ruled out the possibility of a hung assembly in Jammu and Kashmir, emphasizing that dynastic rule by the PDP, NC, and Congress is over. Shah asserted that the BJP will explore all possibilities for the future, but will not allow a return to the politics of family dynasties.
“Building consensus on key issues such as security, development, and political representation is essential for long-term peace. Engaging with various political parties, civil society organizations, and local leaders in a collaborative manner could help in crafting policies that are broadly acceptable and effective in addressing the needs of the people of Jammu and Kashmir.”
Rahul Gandhi Launches Congress Campaign in J&K, Vows to Restore Statehood: Earlier on Sep 04, Vice President Congress and Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi officially launched his party’s election campaign in Jammu and Kashmir, pledging that with the support of INDIA bloc partners, his party will work to restore statehood to the Union Territory. Addressing the gathering, Gandhi expressed confidence that his party’s alliance government would be formed in the coming month.
Alliance with NC for Assembly Polls: The Congress is in alliance with the National Conference for the upcoming assembly elections, which will be held in three phases on September 18, 25, and October 8.
Bjp’s Reluctance To Restore Statehood: Gandhi criticized the BJP for its refusal to restore statehood before holding elections. He emphasized that the Congress, along with the INDIA alliance, will continue to push for the restoration of Jammu and Kashmir’s statehood, stating that “whether the BJP wants it or not, we will pressurize the government to ensure statehood is returned.”
Historical Reversal in Statehood: In his speech, Gandhi condemned the BJP’s move to downgrade Jammu and Kashmir from a state to a Union Territory, calling it the first such reversal in Indian history. He highlighted that in the past, Union Territories were upgraded to states, enhancing democracy and citizens’ rights. This move, he said, does the opposite by stripping away rights and stifling the voice of the people.
Commitment To Restoring Democracy: Gandhi assured the public that restoring statehood remains a top priority for the Congress and the INDIA bloc. He reiterated that the party will not rest until the people of Jammu and Kashmir regain their rights and self-governance. “I guarantee you,” he said, “if the current government does not restore statehood, the next government under the INDIA bloc will.”
Personal Connection with J&K: Gandhi also spoke of his deep personal bond with Jammu and Kashmir, saying, “I have a blood relationship with the people of J&K.” He emphasized that this is not just a political relationship, and pledged to serve the people of the region by raising their issues and concerns in Parliament.
Support for Kashmiri Pandits: Expressing solidarity with the Kashmiri Pandit community, Gandhi accused the BJP of exploiting them for political gain without offering real assistance. He promised that under a Congress-led government, Kashmiri Pandits would be treated with dignity and their issues would be addressed.
Criticism Of PM Narendra Modi: Gandhi also took aim at Prime Minister Narendra Modi, mocking his earlier boasts of having a “56-inch chest.” He claimed that Modi’s confidence has been shattered by the rise of the INDIA alliance, and that the Prime Minister’s earlier bravado has disappeared. He called for unity, urging supporters to stand firm against the BJP and the RSS, and emphasizing the need for love, respect, and communal harmony in Jammu and Kashmir.
Omar Abdullah To Ganderbal Voters, “MY Honour Rests In Your Hands”: National Conference Vice President Omar Abdullah made a heartfelt appeal to the people of Ganderbal on Wednesday, urging them to vote for him and affirming that his honor now rests in their hands.
Nomination Papers And Return To Ganderbal: Abdullah, who has recently filed his nomination papers for the Ganderbal constituency, is making a return to the area he represented from 2008 to 2014 as Chief Minister of the NC-Congress coalition government. After winning the 2014 assembly polls from the Beerwah seat in Budgam district, Abdullah left the Ganderbal seat to his then-party colleague Ishfaq Jabbar. He contested the 2024 Lok Sabha elections from Baramulla but was defeated by independent candidate Engineer Rashid.
Addressing Party Workers, Reaffirming Commitment: Addressing party workers at the NC office, Abdullah expressed his hope to once again serve the people of Ganderbal after a 16-year absence. “I am here once again, hoping that you will allow me to serve as your MLA and continue working for you,” he said.
Emotional Appeal In Kashmiri: In an emotional speech delivered largely in Kashmiri, Abdullah spoke about the suffering endured by the people of Ganderbal since 2016, highlighting the lack of attention to their issues. He promised to address these concerns in the coming weeks.
Poignant Gesture And Request For Support: With tears in his eyes, Abdullah made a poignant appeal to the voters, holding his cap in his hands as a symbol of his request. “Muin dastar (my turban), muin izzat (my honor), muin topi (my cap), are in your hands, ath kariw raech (uphold it),” he implored. “Just give me one opportunity to serve you; I am appealing to you with folded hands.”
Supporters’ Emotional Response,Election Outlook: The emotional appeal resonated deeply with his supporters, who responded with chants of “Omar Zindabad” (long live Omar). Abdullah concluded by urging his party workers to stay united and expressed optimism that the party would achieve success in the upcoming elections.
Mehbooba Criticizes BJP For Narrowing Kashmir Issue: Former Chief Minister and Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Chief Mehbooba Mufti criticized the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Friday for reducing the complex Kashmir issue to merely holding Assembly elections.
Reduction of Kashmir Issue To Article 370, Elections: Mufti accused the BJP of diminishing the Kashmir issue—which she said involved immense loss of life and suffering—to a focus on Article 370 and the restoration of statehood, culminating in the current elections. “The BJP has successfully reduced the Kashmir issue, which has seen countless deaths and enormous losses, to just discussions around Article 370 and statehood,” Mufti said.
Criticism Of Election Focus, Statehood Restoration: She expressed frustration with some parties celebrating the elections and statehood discussions, likening it to searching for shoes after losing a foot. Mufti emphasized that for the PDP, the Kashmir issue is far more than just statehood, stressing that it involves deep historical and social dimensions. “Reducing the issue to just statehood is an injustice to the people,” she said.
Remarks On NC- Congress Alliance: Regarding the pre-poll alliance between the National Conference (NC) and Congress, Mufti criticized the arrangement as lacking a principled foundation. “It’s merely a power-sharing arrangement,” she remarked. “Look at where the JKPCC president (Tariq Hamid Karra) is contesting, and compare it with what’s happening in Tral,” she added, questioning the integrity and effectiveness of the alliance.
Kashmir Horizon View: Despite the sharp contrasts between Shah’s security-focused approach and Gandhi’s statehood restoration promises, there is an urgent need for constructive dialogue among all stakeholders. Initiatives that foster discussion between the BJP, Congress, and regional parties like the NC and PDP could help bridge gaps and address the multifaceted issues faced by Jammu and Kashmir. A platform for open dialogue might also contribute to reducing political polarization and building a more unified approach to regional challenges. Prioritizing development initiatives and youth empowerment can create a common ground that addresses immediate needs while working towards long-term goals. Investments in education, job creation, and infrastructure could serve as a foundation for lasting peace and stability. Initiatives that focus on the return of Kashmiri Pandits, permanent settlement policies for displaced persons, and recovery of properties sold under duress could help heal past wounds and foster trust among the region’s diverse communities. Building consensus on key issues such as security, development, and political representation is essential for long-term peace. Engaging with various political parties, civil society organizations, and local leaders in a collaborative manner could help in crafting policies that are broadly acceptable and effective in addressing the needs of the people of Jammu and Kashmir.
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