New Delhi, Mar20:Union Minister of Home and Cooperation, Amit Shah, outlined India’s progress under the leadership of Prime Minister NarendraModi and laying out a vision for the nation’s future, during a speech at the News18 Rising Bharat Summit today.
Shah emphasised the significant progress made in Jammu and Kashmir under the Modi government, where democracy has flourished. He noted the historic milestone of electing over 30,000 Panchs and Sarpanches, marking a new era of grassroots governance in the region.
Highlighting the commitment to democratic principles,Shah announced that elections will be held in Kashmir before September, reinforcing the government’s dedication to ensuring democratic processes in the region.
Shah appealed to the Muslim brothers and sisters in the valley, urging them to support the deepening of democracy by not voting for dynastic parties such as the Congress, PDP, and National Conference.
On August 5, 2019, the Centre abrogated Article 370, and the erstwhile state was bifurcated into the Union Territories (UTs) of Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh.
“Taking a swipe at Rahul Gandhi, who had referred to the bonds as ‘haftavasooli’ (extortion), Shah remarked, “Gandhi also received Rs 1,600 crore. He should clarify the source of that ‘haftavasooli’. While we maintain it is a transparent donation, if he insists on calling it vasooli, he should provide details.”
Responding to queries about whether the BJP would disclose the list of donors, as some parties had done, Shah asserted, “I can assure you that once the details are revealed, the INDIA camp will have nowhere to hide. Gandhi merely recites speeches crafted by others. He fails to realize that he has undermined his own credibility.”
On February 15, 2024, the Supreme Court of India declared the electoral bond scheme as “unconstitutional.” The court asserted that the scheme infringes upon the right to information enshrined in Article 19(1)(a) of the Constitution, as it allows for anonymous donations to political parties. Furthermore, the court highlighted concerns about the potential coercion of individuals to contribute, concluding that the scheme is “unconstitutional and not fool-proof.”
Slamming the opposition, the Union Home Minister, at the summit, also mentioned that those who have denied democracy and welfare to Kashmir for 75 years should be punished.
Reflecting on the past decade, Shah hailed it as a golden period for India, marked by remarkable growth and development. He emphasised that every citizen now takes pride in being Indian, reflecting on the transformative initiatives undertaken by the government.
Over the past ten years, significant strides have been made in providing basic amenities to the impoverished sections of society, with over 60 crorepeople benefiting from essential necessities such as food, water, healthcare, and housing.
Under Prime Minister Modi’s stewardship, India has ascended to become the world’s fifth-largest economy, a substantial leap from its previous ranking. Shah expressed confidence in further elevating India’s global standing, pledging to make India the third-largest economy in the world in the coming years.
The Union Minister underscored the digital revolution that has swept across the country, transforming lives and empowering citizens. Additionally, Indian startups have gained prominence on the global stage, showcasing the entrepreneurial spirit and innovation thriving in the nation.
Shah highlighted the introduction of a New Education Policy aimed at enhancing the quality of education and ensuring holistic development of students. He also emphasized the government’s unwavering commitment to national security, citing successful surgical and airstrikes that have safeguarded the nation.
Addressing concerns raised by the opposition, Shah defended the government’s policies, particularly the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA), debunking misconceptions and reaffirming the rights of all citizens.
The Minister called out the opposition’s silence on issues such as Bangladeshi infiltrators and Rohingyas, accusing them of playing politics for vote bank gains.
Shah reiterated the government’s commitment to building the Ram Temple democratically, marking the end of a 500-year-old task with the court’s verdict. He emphasized the cultural significance of the Ram Temple, stating that its consecration will remain etched in public memory for generations to come.
He expressed confidence in BJP’s electoral prospects in Uttar Pradesh, promising the best performance yet.
Shah highlighted the Ministry of Home Affairs’ achievements, including restoring peace in Kashmir, facilitating the return of insurgents in the Northeast through peace treaties, combating left-wing extremism, curbing narcotics, and strengthening disaster management.
