Prime Minister Narendra Modi stated on Thursday that the youth of Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) have reaffirmed their commitment to democratic institutions, believing that their vote can drive change and be a step towards their empowerment.
Speaking at a poll rally in support of BJP candidates at the Sher-e-Kashmir stadium here, Modi assured that the BJP will fulfil its promise of restoring statehood to Jammu and Kashmir.
“The youth of Jammu and Kashmir are no longer helpless. They are becoming empowered under the Modi government. I am pleased that the J&K BJP has also announced significant measures for youth employment, including skill development and job provision without manipulation,” he said.
Modi took a swipe at the Congress, National Conference (NC), and Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), accusing them of undermining democracy and ‘Kashmiriyat’ for their benefit.
“Do you recall what they did in the 1980s? They treated Jammu and Kashmir’s politics as their own playground, stifling new voices and preventing Panchayat, DDC, and BDC elections,” Modi said.
“They feared new faces challenging their family rule. Their selfishness led to a loss of faith in democracy among the youth, who felt that only these three families would come to power regardless of their votes,” he added.
The PM highlighted the significant changes in Jammu and Kashmir over the past five years, which he said have restored the youth’s confidence in the democratic process.
“Previously, elections were conducted under difficult conditions, with campaigns ending by 6 p.m., and door-to-door campaigning being nearly impossible.
The Congress, NC, and PDP were content with this situation, enriching themselves by depriving you of your rights,” he stated.
Modi concluded, “The youth have regained confidence in democracy, believing that their vote can bring about change. This renewed hope is the first step towards their empowerment.”
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