Modi is also scheduled to speak at the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board Sports Complex in Katra at 3pm
Srinagar: Following a 59% voter turnout in the first phase of the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly elections, Prime Minister of India Narendra Modi has arrived in Srinagar to address a rally at Sher-e-Kashmir Cricket Stadium on Thursday, September 19. He is also scheduled to speak at the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board Sports Complex in Katra at 3pm.
These events are part of the BJP’s efforts to build support in the Valley, where the party has not previously won any seats. Out of 47 seats in Kashmir, BJP fielded candidates in 19 constituencies, fewer than in the 2014 elections.
During his speech, Modi criticised the Abdullah, Mufti, and Gandhi families, accusing them of fostering division and failing to provide opportunities for the youth. He claimed they had handed stones to the youth rather than addressing their aspirations.
This marks Modi’s first rally in the Valley during the ongoing elections, following an earlier event in Doda, Jammu, on September 14.
Earlier, BJP national general secretary Tarun Chugh described Modi’s visit as a “game changer,” predicting large crowds, especially in Srinagar. He noted Modi’s previous warm receptions in the region.
Security measures are stringent, with the J&K Police coordinating with the Special Protection Group (SPG). Sharpshooters have been placed on nearby buildings, and both electronic and human surveillance have been heightened, as per various reports.
On X, Modi posted, “I look forward to being among the people of Jammu and Kashmir today. Will address a rally in Srinagar and Katra. Yesterday’s turnout has shown that the people of J&K are very enthusiastic about the elections and are keen to make the poll process vibrant. I will speak about our development agenda and seek people’s blessings.”
