With the second phase of the Jammu and Kashmir assembly polls wrapped up this week, the political landscape is abuzz with anticipation for the third and final round. In an exclusive, no-holds-barred interview with News18, Dr Jitendra Singh, minister of state in the Prime Minister’s Office, discussed the BJP’s transformative agenda for J&K and the party’s vision for the future.
Dr Singh emphasised that the people of the region, particularly in Jammu, are eager to bring the BJP back to power, having experienced equitable development under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership.
“For years, Jammu alleged discrimination, but in the past ten years, both Jammu and Kashmir have seen equal progress. Prior to 2014, agitations were common, but today, peace and development have taken centre stage,” he said.
Highlighting the development in his own constituency, Dr Singh pointed out the unprecedented growth in healthcare and infrastructure. “My constituency is the only one in the world with three medical colleges. Airports are being developed, and Kishtwar will soon have one as well. Modi Ji has blessed this region with growth that was long overdue,” he said.
On the issue of water rights, Dr Singh credited Prime Minister Modi for completing stalled projects under the Indus Water Treaty, which had left India with a lesser share of water compared to Pakistan. “Modi Ji completed the projects that ensure India’s rightful share of the water from the Ravi River, water that was previously flowing into Pakistan.”
Revoking Article 370: ‘A Historic Milestone’
Speaking on the BJP’s long-standing commitment to revoking Article 370, Dr Singh reiterated that it was a matter of conviction for the party. “It was in the Jan Sangh manifesto. Syama Prasad Mukherjee had a clear vision that until we are in power, we won’t be able to implement our agenda. Vajpayee couldn’t do it due to coalition constraints, but it was destined for Modi Ji to fulfil this promise.”
Dr Singh also pointed out how Article 370 had been exploited by certain political leaders in Kashmir for personal gain. “Politicians used Article 370 to keep the people of Kashmir underdeveloped and under their control. For the first time in 50 years, assembly elections will be held for a full five-year term. It was these leaders who prevented the implementation of the Panchayati Raj Act, keeping funds in their personal accounts.”
He spoke passionately about the plight of West Pakistan refugees, who were denied basic rights for decades. “These refugees were nationalists, but they weren’t granted citizenship in Jammu and Kashmir. Congress and NC didn’t see them as part of their vote bank, so they ignored their rights. This has changed under Modi Ji.”
‘A New Era of Development and Stability’
Dr Singh pointed to the transformation of Kashmir’s education sector as evidence of BJP’s success in the region. “Today, children from Kashmir are achieving great heights, with access to resources and technology. A girl from Poonch, in her first attempt, ranked 11th in the IAS exam—a remarkable achievement for a region with no coaching centres and new colleges.”
On the issue of statehood, Dr Singh was confident, echoing Modi’s previous statements. “Statehood will be restored. The opposition is simply trying to claim credit for something that is already in the pipeline.”
‘Equitable Development and a Brighter Future’
Under BJP, Dr Singh stressed that both Jammu and Kashmir have seen equitable development. “Jammu was ignored for decades while all the funds went to Kashmir. This has changed now. Under BJP, both regions are seeing development hand in hand.”
He dismissed opposition claims as baseless, noting that the Congress and National Conference are grappling with internal disillusionment. “Omar Abdullah is unhappy with Congress for not taking the election campaign seriously. Meanwhile, BJP is always prepared.”
Jammu & Kashmir’s Role in India’s Growth Story
Dr Singh concluded by speaking about Jammu and Kashmir’s crucial role in India’s economic future. “Before 2014, India was classified among the ‘fragile five’, but under Modi Ji’s leadership, we are now in the top five. With resources like lithium ore in Reasi and Neelam and Sapphire ores in Kishtwar, J&K will be pivotal in India’s rise to economic supremacy.”
As the third and final phase of the elections approaches, Dr Jitendra Singh’s words reflect a sense of optimism and confidence in the BJP’s vision for a united and developed Jammu and Kashmir. With promises of restored statehood and continued growth, the stage is set for what could be a defining moment in the region’s political history.
