Terrorism, Strikes, Stone-Pelting Drop Under Modi Rule : Amit Shah

NEW DELHI:  Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation, Amit Shah, declared on Friday that terrorism, insurgency, and extremism in India are on the brink of eradication under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership.

Addressing the Rajya Sabha during a two-day debate on the functioning of the Ministry of Home Affairs, Shah asserted that the government’s firm approach had dismantled threats that once plagued the nation.

Decisive Action Against Terrorism

Shah pointed out that in the past, terrorists from across the border infiltrated Jammu & Kashmir, executed bombings, and carried out assassinations while previous governments remained hesitant to act due to political considerations.

“They were silent, fearful of taking a stand, and worried about losing their vote bank,”he said.

However, after Modi took charge, a zero-tolerance policy against terrorism was implemented. He highlighted that no major bomb blasts had occurred under the government’s watch.

“When attacks took place in Uri and Pulwama, our forces responded within 10 days by striking deep inside enemy territory with surgical precision,” he stated.

India Joins the League of Nations That Defend Aggressively

Shah emphasized that previously, only the United States and Israel were known for defending their borders and forces with unwavering determination. He credited PM Modi for positioning India alongside them.

“It was from that moment that our zero-tolerance approach to terrorism took root,” he remarked.

End of Article 370: A New Dawn for Kashmir

Shah asserted that the primary cause of separatism in Kashmir was Article 370, which previous governments retained due to political motives. However, on August 5, 2019, PM Modi revoked it, laying the foundation for one nation, one law, one symbol.

“With this historic move, the complete integration of Kashmir with India began,” he said.

The government granted Dogri, Hindi, and Urdu official language status in J&K and introduced national laws, including anti-corruption measures. Additionally, Modi removed the permit system at the Pathankot checkpoint, ushering in an era of governance, development, and transparency.

Cultural Revival in Kashmir

Shah highlighted that under the Modi administration, cinemas reopened in the region after 33 years, and religious processions—such as Muharram’s Tazia—were allowed for the first time in 34 years.

“At one time, raising the national flag at Lal Chowk was nearly impossible. Today, during Har Ghar Tiranga, every home proudly flies the tricolor,” he added.

The Home Minister noted that Kashmir hosted a Formula 4 car racing event and a Krishna Janmashtami celebration in Lal Chowk, demonstrating a transformation in the region’s socio-cultural landscape.

Terror Recruitment and Public Support Declining

Shah revealed that the number of young Indians joining terror groups had drastically declined under Modi’s leadership.

“A decade ago, terrorists were glorified, and large funeral processions were held. Today, no such processions occur, and those killed in conflicts are buried where they fall,” he asserted.

He added that the government had dismissed several relatives of terrorists from government jobs and barred terror supporters from obtaining passports, government contracts, and employment.

Sharp Decline in Violence and Casualties

Shah provided a comparative analysis of terrorist incidents over two decades:

1. From 2004-2014, there were 7,217 terror-related incidents, whereas from 2014-2024, the number dropped to 2,242.
2. Civilian deaths declined by 81%, while casualties among security forces fell by 50%.

1. Organized stone-pelting incidents averaged 2,654 per year between 2010-2014; in 2024, there were none.
2. In 2004, India witnessed 1,587 terrorist attacks—in 2024, this number plummeted to just 85.

Unprecedented Development in Kashmir

Shah highlighted that in 2015, PM Modi approved ₹80,000 crore worth of projects for Kashmir. Out of these, ₹51,000 crore has already been utilized, completing 53 projects.

From 2019 to 2024, the government:

1. Created 40,000 government jobs in J&K.
2. Provided 1.51 lakh OBC youths with self-employment opportunities through Vishwakarma Yojana.
3. Established 5,184 youth clubs focused on skill development.
4. Facilitated 18,000 youth-owned taxi businesses.

Shah also noted that the region had witnessed ₹12,000 crore in direct investment, with MoUs worth ₹1.1 lakh crore currently in progress.

“Before Modi, Kashmir attracted only ₹14,000 crore in investments over 70 years. In just 10 years, we’ve already surpassed ₹12,000 crore, with industries now operational,” he stated.

Tourism in Kashmir also hit record levels, with 2.11 crore visitors in 2023, driving ₹250 crore in tourism investments.

Strengthening Democracy in J&K

Shah said PM Modi had restored democratic foundations in the region.

“Under previous administrations, J&K had just 90 legislators and 6 MPs. Today, there are 34,262 elected representatives working for the people,” he said.

During the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, voter participation surged to 98%, with not a single bullet fired.

Revolutionizing Education & Healthcare

Under PM Modi’s leadership:

1. AIIMS, IITs, and IIMs were established in J&K.

2. The number of medical colleges increased from 4 to 15, along with 15 new nursing colleges.

3. MBBS seats rose from 500 to 1,300, and PG medical seats increased from 767 to 1,064.

Final Warning to Terrorists

Shah concluded with a firm message:

“Some refuse to acknowledge the progress we have made, but we see it clearly. As for those who attempt to harm our people—we do not hesitate to eliminate them the moment they are spotted,” he declared.

The Home Minister made it clear: under the Modi government, terrorism has no future, and those who shed innocent blood will find no place in India.