Valmikis were deprived of basic rights until Art 370 was axed: PM Modi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, while addressing a rally in Jalgaon, Maharashtra, on Sunday said that until abrogation of Article 370, the Valmiki community in Jammu and Kashmir was deprived of basic rights. The PM asserted that his government took the necessary measures to ensure normalcy in Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh regions.

'Not just a piece of land but the crown of India'

"Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh is not just a piece of land for us but is the crown of India," The Prime Minister said in Jalgaon ahead of the Assembly elections in Maharashtra.

"Looking at the security needs, we took the necessary steps. We have also tried our best to ensure normalcy in the area, amidst all the negative powers in and around the area." 

PM Modi added, "You will be surprised to know that for 70 years, our Valmiki brothers in Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh were also deprived of human rights. Today, I bow in front of Lord Valmiki that I am getting the privilege to embrace my brothers,"

PM Modi attacked the opposition parties

Prime Minister Modi also targeted the opposition for criticising the Central government for taking the decision to abrogate Article 370 from Jammu and Kashmir, saying, "Today, unfortunately, some political parties and some politicians in our country are politicizing this decision taken in the national interest." He added, "One should listen to the statements given by the Congress-NCP leaders pertaining to Jammu and Kashmir. They think just the opposite of what the entire country thinks of Jammu and Kashmir. Their thinking is the same as the neighbouring country."

PM Modi questioned, "Can these leaders, who are trying to fool the people with their crocodile tears, bring back Article 370 in Kashmir? Will the people of India allow them to? Will the people of India accept it?" 

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