Union Home Minister Amit Shah arrived in Jammu on Sunday evening for a crucial three-day visit to Jammu and Kashmir, which comes at a time when terror activities have surged in the region. Amit Shah held an over two-hour meeting with BJP legislators, urging them to strengthen their stance against the ruling National Conference (NC), particularly on key issues such as the abrogation of Article 370 and the passage of the Waqf (Amendment) Act. His visit also includes a series of discussions focused on security and development, underlining the importance of the BJP’s presence and strategies in the region.
During the meeting with Jammu’s BJP lawmakers, which included Leader of Opposition Sunil Sharma, Amit Shah emphasized the need for a strong counter-narrative to the National Conference, especially regarding the abrogation of Article 370, which revoked the region’s semi-autonomous status. The NC has been vocal about the consequences of this move, and Amit Shah directed BJP legislators to address these concerns among the public. Sharma mentioned that Amit Shah encouraged the lawmakers to actively communicate the positive outcomes of the BJP-led Union government’s policies over the past decade, contrasting them with the previous administration’s failures.
Amit Shah also sought feedback on pressing issues like drug trafficking and the ongoing security situation in the region. He urged the legislators to serve as a voice for the people, ensuring that they are well-informed about the government’s initiatives. The meeting marked Amit Shah’s first interaction with J&K BJP lawmakers following significant political developments in the region. Amit Shah is focused on bolstering the party’s position amidst rising tensions and instability.
The visit coincides with increasing terrorist activities in Jammu and Kashmir, and Amit Shah is scheduled to review the security landscape with senior officials. On Monday, he plans to visit a Border Security Force outpost in Kathua, along the India-Pakistan border, to evaluate counterterrorism measures and address infiltration concerns. Special emphasis will be given to securing the 200 km-long international border. Amit Shah is also set to meet the families of fallen Jammu and Kashmir Police personnel and provide job letters to them.
Apart from security briefings, Amit Shah will review development projects in Srinagar on Tuesday, followed by another round of security evaluations. Speculation surrounds his potential meeting with former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, especially after tensions arose regarding the transfer of 48 J&K administrative service officers. The move has been contentious, with Abdullah accusing Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha of overstepping his authority. Sinha, however, has defended his decision, stating that the transfers were in line with the J&K Reorganisation Act of 2019.
