Defence Minister Criticizes Pakistan’s Treatment of PoK Residents
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, addressing an election rally in Pamban, Jammu and Kashmir, urged residents of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) to join India. He emphasized that India views them as its own, in contrast to Pakistan, which treats them as “foreigners.” Singh cited a statement from Pakistan’s additional solicitor general describing PoK as foreign land.
Highlighting Security Improvements in J&K
Singh highlighted the significant improvement in the security situation in Jammu and Kashmir since the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019. He noted that local youths now use laptops and computers instead of weapons, and violence in Srinagar has notably decreased.
Call for Support in Upcoming Assembly Elections
The Defence Minister called on voters to support BJP candidate Rakesh Singh Thakur in the Assembly elections. He promised that a BJP victory would lead to substantial development in the region, potentially convincing PoK residents to prefer India over Pakistan.
Promoting J&K as a Tourism Hub
Singh also referenced the successful G20 event held in Srinagar last year, which helped position Kashmir as a “tourism hotspot” rather than a site of terrorism. He stated that the upcoming elections are being closely watched globally, and a BJP win would elevate J&K to a leading position in India.
