Union Home Minister Amit Shah addressed an election rally in Poonch on Saturday, asserting that the borders in Jammu and Kashmir remain peaceful due to Pakistan’s fear of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Speaking in support of BJP candidate Murtaza Khan, Shah highlighted the government’s achievements in combating terrorism and promoting development in the region.
Shah praised the BJP-led Centre’s efforts, stating, “We have replaced guns and stones with laptops in the hands of our youth. Our government will not allow guns to resonate in the hills of Jammu.” He emphasized the importance of safety along the borders and announced plans to construct more bunkers for the protection of residents.
Reflecting on the historical context, Shah remarked, “Remember the cross-border firings in the 1990s? Is cross-border firing happening today? It is because the earlier rulers were frightened of Pakistan, but now, Pakistan fears Modi.” He asserted that any aggression from across the border would be met with a “befitting reply.”
This rally is part of Shah’s three-day tour of the region, during which he is set to address four additional rallies in Surankote, Thanamandi, Rajouri, and Akhnoor. The ongoing assembly polls in Jammu and Kashmir mark the first since the abrogation of Article 370 and the division of the state into Union Territories in August 2019. The first phase of voting took place on September 18, with the second phase scheduled for September 25 and the third on October 1. Election results will be announced on October 8.
Shah’s statements underscore the BJP’s commitment to national security and its strategic positioning in the upcoming elections, aiming to solidify its influence in the newly constituted political landscape of Jammu and Kashmir.
