In a fiery address at a public rally in Kishtwar on Monday, Union Home Minister Amit Shah launched a blistering critique against National Conference (NC) president Farooq Abdullah, accusing him of making unfounded allegations linking the Indian Army with terrorists. Shah asserted that Abdullah’s remarks were a desperate ploy to win elections, emphasising that such baseless accusations undermine the army’s sacrifices and dedication.
“Farooq Abdullah has stooped to new lows in his election bid,” Shah said, referencing Abdullah’s recent controversial statement suggesting collusion between the army and terrorists. Shah emphasised that the Indian Army has defended Jammu and Kashmir through three wars, often sacrificing their lives in extreme conditions. “Insulting them is unacceptable,” Shah declared.
Shah assured the audience that the Modi government is committed to eradicating terrorism from the region. He highlighted the development of a major security infrastructure, including the restructuring of Village Defence Guards (VDGs) and Special Police Officers (SPOs), with modernised weapons replacing outdated models.
In his speech, Shah condemned Abdullah’s claims as a political manoeuvre and criticised Omar Abdullah’s statement regarding Afzal Guru, labelling it as indicative of potential future violence and instability if NC were to gain power. “Omar Abdullah’s comments reflect what could happen under their rule—resurgence of stone-pelting, militant funerals, and escalating attacks,” Shah warned.
Shah urged voters to reject the Abdullah, Gandhi, and Mufti dynasties, promising that such a move would bury terrorism so deeply that it wouldn’t resurface for generations. He criticised the NC-Congress alliance, alleging that their plans could endanger regional security, including proposals to release terrorists from jails.
The Home Minister also praised BJP candidate Shagun Parihar, highlighting her family’s sacrifices in the fight against terrorism. Shah called for support for Parihar as a symbol of both security and development, citing her family’s martyrdom as a testament to her commitment.
Additionally, Shah extended congratulations to para-athlete Sheetal Devi for her recent bronze medal win at the Paris Paralympics and her receipt of the Arjuna Award, celebrating her as a source of national pride.
With a clear message to terrorists and a call to voters, Shah’s rally underscored the government’s dedication to maintaining security and rejecting any attempts to destabilise Jammu and Kashmir.
(With inputs from PTI)