Elections in Jammu & Kashmir: A Testament to India's Democracy, Says Defence Minister

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh emphasized the significance of the upcoming assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir as a testament to India's democracy. Speaking at a rally in Gurez, Singh highlighted India's readiness to combat terrorism and criticized Pakistan's role in fostering it, while also outlining development initiatives for the region.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Sunday highlighted the upcoming assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir as a demonstration of India's democratic strength. Addressing a public rally in Gurez at Bandipore, Singh claimed that if relations were better, India would have provided more financial assistance to Pakistan than requested from the International Monetary Fund.

Singh quoted former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, stating that the union of 'Insaniyat, Jamuhriyat, and Kashmiriyat' could transform Kashmir into 'heaven' once again. He stressed the importance of voter participation and referenced the Prime Minister's Development Package (PMDP), initiated by PM Modi in 2015 for the region. Singh asserted that the PMDP's funding surpasses the amount Pakistan sought from the IMF.

Targeting Pakistan, the Defence Minister accused it of perpetuating terrorist activities in Kashmir and warned of India's readiness to combat terrorism even beyond its borders. He condemned Pakistan's interference in discouraging democracy in the region and lauded local resilience. Singh also criticized opposition parties NC and Congress for their stance on Article 370, emphasizing that its removal has fostered positive change, tourism, and youth development in Kashmir.

(With inputs from agencies.)