On Thursday, September 19, Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed an election rally in Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir, discussing his vision for “Naya Kashmir.” His speech followed the first phase of voting for 24 of the 90 assembly seats in the region.
During his address, PM Modi criticized the Congress, National Conference (NC), and People’s Democratic Party (PDP), vowing to prevent the Union Territory’s future from being undermined by the “three families.” He accused them of having “crushed Jamuriat and Kashmiriat.”
Praising the impressive voter turnout in the first phase of the Jammu and Kashmir elections, PM Modi remarked, “The strong voter participation in the initial phase has sent a clear message against parties that support stone-pelters and terrorists. The people have shown their trust in my commitment to a safe and prosperous Jammu and Kashmir. I extend my heartfelt thanks to those who came to Srinagar to seek blessings.”
Here are some key quotes from PM Modi’s speech in Srinagar:
1. Your large turnout today, the enthusiasm of the youth, the peace in the eyes of the elders, and the presence of mothers and sisters… this is the new Kashmir.
2. Yesterday’s first round of voting across 7 districts was free from the threat of terrorism. It is a great joy and source of pride that so many people came out to vote.
3. In my recent visit to Jammu and Kashmir, I pointed out that three powerful families [referring to Congress, NC, and PDP] are responsible for the region’s decline. Since then, they have been in turmoil and panic.
4. I will not allow another generation to be ruined by these three families. That’s why I am committed to restoring peace here. Today, schools and colleges across Jammu and Kashmir are functioning smoothly. Children have access to pens, books, and laptops. Instead of hearing about fires in schools, we are seeing reports of new schools, colleges, AIIMS, medical colleges, and IITs being established.
5. The three families here view Jammu and Kashmir’s politics as their personal domain. They are determined to keep power within their own circle. If not, why did they obstruct the elections for Panchayat, BDC, and DDC?
