Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Friday criticized the National Conference (NC) and the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) of Jammu and Kashmir for their campaign promises to restore the state’s former special status if they win the Assembly elections. He dismissed such claims about reinstating Articles 370 and 35A as unrealistic, stating that these provisions are now a “thing of the past.”
Shah also called for clarification from Rahul Gandhi, the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, questioning whether the Congress, which has formed a pre-poll alliance with the NC, supports the party’s manifesto. This manifesto includes pledges to reinstate Article 370 and release stone pelters and other individuals involved in separatist activities and terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir.
At a press conference in Jammu, Shah remarked, “I have reviewed the NC manifesto, which promises to restore Article 370. Let me be clear, Article 370 has been permanently abolished, and it will not be reinstated.” He noted that prior to 2019, Jammu and Kashmir was plagued by separatism and terrorism, with governments backed by the Hurriyat. However, he stated that since August 2019, a new era of peace and prosperity has begun under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership.
Shah questioned Rahul Gandhi and the Congress party, asking if they advocate for the return of terrorism and separatism, as well as the reestablishment of dual flags and Articles 370 and 35A. He asserted that although Gandhi may not directly address these questions, it is clear that he supports the NC’s manifesto.
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