AFSPA To be Revoked in J&K Once Militancy Ends, Union Minister
In response to Home Minister Amit Shah’s statement about considering revoking the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA) in Jammu and Kashmir, Union Minister Anurag Thakur emphasized that AFSPA can be revoked when militancy in the region is completely eradicated. Thakur highlighted the improving security situation in Jammu and Kashmir and stated that peace and prosperity are the focus under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership.
Speaking to reporters during a road show in Udhampur district organized by the BJP in support of Union Minister Jitendra Singh’s re-election bid, Thakur expressed optimism about the progress in Jammu and Kashmir. He noted the significant development in the region over the past decade and emphasized the decline in terrorism-related incidents and disruptions.
Thakur accused the National Conference (NC), the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), and the Congress of contributing to the destruction of Jammu and Kashmir through corruption. He criticized their governance, alleging that they turned the region from a paradise into a hotbed of terrorism and unrest.
Highlighting the achievements of the Modi government, Thakur mentioned the substantial investments in tourism, infrastructure, and employment generation in Jammu and Kashmir. He cited statistics on tourism influx and government initiatives aimed at empowering women and providing basic amenities to households across the country.
Thakur condemned alleged derogatory remarks made by Congress leaders Supriya Shrinate and H S Ahir, labeling the opposition party as “anti-women.” He contrasted the Modi government’s initiatives for women empowerment, including housing, sanitation, healthcare, and financial support, with the Congress’s track record.
Regarding the scheduling of assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir, Thakur indicated confidence in the Election Commission of India’s (ECI) review process following the completion of the Lok Sabha polls. He expressed certainty that the elections would proceed as per the set deadline, underscoring the importance of a fresh assessment by the ECI.
