Shinde’s Revelation: ‘Scared of Visiting Kashmir’

Former Union Home Minister Sushil Kumar Shinde said he used to be scared of venturing out in the Kashmir Valley during the UPA government. The BJP mocked the Congress, highlighting the changes Jammu and Kashmir has witnessed following the abrogation of Article 370. Shinde made this statement during the launch of his memoir, ‘Five Decades of Politics,’ in Delhi on Monday. He said, “Before I became the Home Minister, I used to ask for advice from educationist Vijay Dhar. He advised me to visit Lal Chowk, meet people, and go around Dal Lake. People thought I was fearless, but in reality, I was scared.”

Shinde’s remark was met with sharp criticism from the BJP. Union Minister Bhupender Yadav stated, “During Congress rule, the Home Minister was scared of venturing out in Kashmir. In the Modi era, 2-3 crore tourists visit Jammu and Kashmir yearly. The abrogation of Article 370 has strengthened democracy and reduced the influence of corrupt political dynasties.” BJP spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla added, “Today, Rahul Gandhi is comfortably doing Bharat Jodo Yatra and engaging in snow fights in Kashmir, but Congress and National Conference want to take J&K back to days of terror.”

Article 370 granted special autonomy to Jammu and Kashmir, allowing it to have its own constitution, flag, and autonomy over internal matters except defense, communications, and foreign affairs. On August 5, 2019, the government revoked Article 370, effectively reorganizing the region into two Union Territories: Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh.

This significant move is credited with reducing militancy in the region, though Congress and National Conference, preparing for upcoming Assembly elections, have promised to restore the article, arguing it was a betrayal to the people of Jammu and Kashmir.

Aakhir Tak Editor-in-Chief

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