Jammu, 16th Sept. Home Minister Amit Shah delivered a blistering critique of National Conference (NC) president Farooq Abdullah at a public rally in Kishtwar on Monday. Shah condemned Abdullah’s recent remarks, which alleged that the Indian Army had links with terrorists, calling them baseless and a sign of Abdullah’s desperation to win elections.
Addressing the crowd, Shah accused Abdullah of crossing the line in his bid for electoral success. “Farooq Abdullah has lost control in his attempt to win elections. How low can he stoop to secure a victory?” Shah remarked. He emphasized the Indian Army’s sacrifices, noting that they have protected Jammu and Kashmir in three wars and continue to safeguard the region under harsh conditions. “Insulting our armed forces is unacceptable,” he said.
Shah also addressed Abdullah’s controversial statements from August, where Abdullah suggested a collusion between the army and terrorists infiltrating India. “Elections come and go, but maligning our armed forces does not behove someone of Farooq Abdullah’s stature,” Shah added.
The Home Minister urged voters to defeat the political dynasties of the Abdullahs, Gandhis, and Muftis. “For once, defeat these three families, and I promise you terrorism will be buried so deep, it won’t return for seven generations,” Shah declared.
Shah criticized NC leader Omar Abdullah’s comments questioning the hanging of Parliament attack convict Afzal Guru. He warned that such statements reflect what could happen if Abdullah’s party gains power, suggesting that it would lead to a resurgence of violence and halted investments.
Shah also took aim at the NC-Congress alliance, warning that their plans could compromise regional security. He reassured voters that under Narendra Modi’s government, terrorism will not make a comeback, and highlighted the ongoing efforts to strengthen local security forces, including upgrading weapons for Special Police Officers (SPOs) and Village Defence Guards (VDGs).
Issuing a stern warning to terrorists, Shah stated, “If you have plans to spread terror, now is the time to rethink and leave from here. The Indian Army and other forces are prepared to bury you here.”
Shah recalled historical tensions between the Abdullah family and the Congress, referencing Sheikh Abdullah’s imprisonment during Indira Gandhi’s tenure. He expressed disbelief at the alliance between Congress and NC, questioning how power can alter political alignments.
Assuring voters of continued efforts to eradicate terrorism, uphold Article 370’s abrogation, and protect reservations, Shah concluded by praising BJP candidate Shagun Parihar for her family’s sacrifices. “Voting for Shagun is not just a vote for the nation’s security or development but a tribute to her father and uncle, who sacrificed their lives for the country,” Shah said.
Shah also congratulated para-athlete Sheetal Devi for her recent bronze medal win at the Paris Paralympics and her recognition with the Arjuna Award.
