What TV doesn't, print can't; we deliver.
What TV doesn't, print can't; we deliver.
SRINAGAR: A day following the first round of the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly polling, Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke at a public rally in Srinagar on Thursday. Opening his remarks by welcoming the residents of Srinagar in Kashmiri, PM Modi promised to fast-track development in Jammu and Kashmir and praised the region’s participation in democratic processes.
“Today, I see Kashmiri brothers and sisters welcoming me with ‘Khushaamdeed,’ and I thank them wholeheartedly,” he said. Modi lauded the high voter turnout in the first phase of the elections, highlighting the peaceful participation of youth, women, and the elderly. “Kishtwar saw 80% turnout, Doda 71%, and Kulgam 62%, breaking previous voting records,” Modi noted, calling it a proud moment for J&K.
The Prime Minister aimed at the three dominant political families including the National Conference, PDP and Congress accusing them of stifling development, education, and the aspirations of J&K’s youth. “These families have ruled for decades, keeping the region underdeveloped and encouraging terrorism. But J&K will no longer remain in the cage of these three families,” he asserted.
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Modi emphasized that while the region’s youth were previously kept away from progressing, they are now challenging these families and forging their path. The Prime Minister highlighted the destructive policies of the past, accusing these families of shielding those who burnt schools and undermined education. “They destroyed the future of our youth to maintain their political power,” he said, vowing that another generation would not be lost to such policies.
PM Modi promised to continue providing education and job opportunities, noting that 50,000 students who had left school are now back, thanks to government initiatives. He highlighted infrastructure improvements, such as new schools, AIIMS, IITs, and adding medical seats.
PM Modi touted several initiatives undertaken by his government, including skill development programs, corruption-free job grants, and health coverage for families in Kashmir, which will be increased from ₹5 lakh to ₹7 lakh. He promised 24-hour free electricity under the PM Muft Bijli Scheme and solar panel installations to reduce energy costs.
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The Prime Minister criticized the attempts of the three political families to stop grassroots democracy, claiming they blocked DDC and BDC elections to preserve their dynastic rule. He pointed to examples of successful youth leaders like Ajaz Hussain, who are now challenging these traditional powers.
Modi also reflected on the improved security and social environment in Kashmir, noting that places once considered unsafe, like Lal Chowk, are now hosting public celebrations such as Eid, Diwali, and Muharram processions. “This peace has been achieved by the people of J&K, not by Modi,” he said, thanking the people for their resilience.
Addressing the significance of international events in the region, Modi cited the G20 summit, sports car races, and Khelo India Winter Games, which have boosted J&K’s visibility. He also pointed out the region’s transformation, with no bandhs (shutdowns) in the last five years, compared to 35 years of frequent disruptions.
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Modi concluded his speech by urging voters to participate in large numbers in the upcoming election on September 25, calling on them to break voting records and support the BJP for continued peace and prosperity in J&K.
PM Modi also offered condolences for the passing of Mohammad Shafi Pandit, Kashmir’s first IAS officer, acknowledging his contributions even after retirement. “My prayers are with his family in this time of grief,” Modi said.
