‘PM changed J&K scenario in last 11 years’
Avtar Bhat
JAMMU, Oct 13: Exuding confidence that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), under Prime Minister, Narendra Modi’s leadership, will win the trust of MLAs in the upcoming Rajya Sabha elections in Jammu and Kashmir, Union Minister, in PMO with Independent charge of Science and Technology, Dr Jitendra Singh today said that the way during last 11 years Modi changed fate and picture of Jammu and Kashmir, their conscience will certainly align with party’s vision for J&K’s future.
Follow the Daily Excelsior channel on WhatsApp
Talking to Excelsior after filling of nomination papers by BJP candidates in Srinagar today, Dr Jitendra Singh said that earlier J&K was under the grip of terrorism and it was due to visionary and farsightedness of Prime Minister Narendra Modi that peace prevails in the UT today.
Click here to watch video
He said the people of UT lost 25 to 30 years of progress due to turmoil but now situation has changed altogether. “Today children of J&K excel in various fields as they are intelligent but unfortunately they were deprived to show their mettle due to decades’ long turmoil”.
Earlier, Dr Jitendra Singh accompanied the BJP candidates, including party president, Sat Sharma, senior leader, Ali Mohammad Mir, and its vice president, Rakesh Mahajan, who filed nominations for the October 24 polls to fill four Rajya Sabha seats.
Rejecting the allegations of unethical tactics to secure votes like horse trading or cross voting, he reiterated the party’s commitment to democratic principles.
“We categorically deny any suggestions of inciting cross-voting or vote-buying. BJP is a democratic party and we adhere strictly to democratic values,” said Dr Jitendra Singh, adding “It is an evidence based era and everything is open before the public”.
Dr Jitendra Singh said that Prime Minister is very much concerned for J&K and it was his concern for the people of this region that soon after becoming Prime Minister in 2014 when Srinagar city and other areas of Valley were submerged in flood waters, he choose to spend his first Diwali with people of Kashmir to share their pain and agony.
In reply to a question regarding party’s prospects in Budgam Assembly by elections, Dr Jitendra Singh said “BJP is in better position in Kashmir this time. Both statics and figures are in our favour”.
He said in last year’s Assembly poll, the BJP’s vote share was more than ruling party. “As in democracy head count matters, they (ruling party) has more members than us but public support is more with us”, he added.
In response to a question that the relations between Congress and NC have turned sour, Dr Jitendra Singh said that he does not need to commit on that and indulge in their politics but one thing is evident that from North to South and East to West there is Modi everywhere.
He said “The BJP has emerged as pan-India party,. This time all over India, Modi is considered their leader by masses. “Whatever Congress leadership will say but the ground reality is that their (Congress leaders) own family members also vote for Modi.”
He said, “If MLAs listen to their conscience, they will recognize that the future of Jammu and Kashmir lies with the BJP under PM Modi’s leadership,”.
Referring to three BJP candidates, Dr Jitendra Singh highlighted their dedication, noting their years of public service.
“These candidates understand the needs of Jammu and Kashmir. We are confident the MLAs will support them to amplify J&K’s voice in Parliament,” he said.
“While the ruling coalition has the numbers, BJP’s vote share reflects the people’s trust,” he said.
Dr Jitendra Singh also noted the BJP’s preparations for by-polls in Budgam and Nagrota, stating, “The notification was issued today. Our Parliamentary Board will announce candidates soon,”.
On the Congress’ demand for a “safe seat” in the Rajya Sabha polls, he dismissed it as an internal NC-Congress issue, adding, “Congress has lost its plot across the country,”.
Addressing broader issues, Dr Jitendra Singh touched on India’s global stature, deferring Afghanistan-related comments to the Ministry of External Affairs.
“India is a leader, not a follower, supplying vaccines to 200 countries,” he said.
He also highlighted the BJP’s growing appeal in the Kashmir valley, where it has faced historical challenges.
“Misled by parties like Congress in the past, the people of Jammu and Kashmir now see the BJP’s development projects, improved connectivity, and economic opportunities driving our rising support,” he added.
Follow our WhatsApp channel
