Jammu, Aug 23: Senior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader and former minister, Priya Sethi on Friday launched a scathing attack on political parties that rely on distributing freebies to “manipulate” electoral outcomes.
She warned that the practice of promising unearned rewards is eroding the foundational values of society, comparing it to a termite that weakens the very fabric of the nation.
In a statement issued here, the former minister accused the regional parties like the National Conference (NC) of doing nothing to uplift or empower women during their 70-year-long rule in Jammu and Kashmir.
“For decades, they had the opportunity to bring change, but they did nothing for the women or the marginalised sections of society. Now, with elections approaching, they suddenly resort to handing out freebies to sway voters,” she said.
Priya highlighted the achievements of the Modi government, saying, “In just 10 years of leadership at the Centre, the BJP has brought transformative changes to Jammu & Kashmir. The Modi government’s decisive actions have put an end to the culture of stone pelting and hartals that once paralysed the valley. Today, schools and colleges no longer shut down due to unrest; normalcy has returned. The valley is flourishing with tourists and people are empowered to build their future.”
Sethi said the BJP has worked tirelessly to implement welfare policies that uplift women and other deprived sections through targeted schemes. “The rival political parties continue to engage in ‘Revdi’ culture. Revdi culture is all about handing out lollipops to win votes. It does nothing to improve the quality of life for people or drive real transformation,” she said.
The BJP leader urged the public to “see through these political ploys”. “People must understand the hidden motives behind these freebies. They are not in the country’s best interest but are short-sighted tactics aimed at grabbing power. Such offers are harmful to the nation’s progress and the future of its people.”
Priya asked voters to reject the “deceptive tactics” of opposition parties and instead rally behind the BJP in the upcoming assembly elections. “Only the BJP, with its track record of development and transformation, can ensure a brighter and more prosperous future for Jammu & Kashmir. Support the party that delivers real change, not empty promises,” she urged.