- Kashmir is the crown of India: PM Modi
SONAMARG, Jan 13: During a public meeting on Monday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi reiterated his commitment to fulfilling the promises made to the people of Jammu and Kashmir, indirectly referencing the demand for statehood restoration emphasized by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah.
Modi’s remarks came after he inaugurated a significant 6.4-km tunnel that links Kashmir to Sonamarg, constructed at a cost of Rs 2,700 crore.
In his earlier address, Abdullah urged for the prompt restoration of Jammu and Kashmir’s statehood, reminding the prime minister of his commitment made before the assembly elections last September. “I truly believe you will fulfill this promise soon,” he stated.
While not directly addressing the statehood issue, Modi assured the gathering, “You must have faith; this is Modi, and he keeps his promises.” He added, “There is a right time for everything, and the right things will happen at the right time.”
Welcoming Modi, Abdullah referenced a previous speech the prime minister delivered on International Yoga Day that highlighted two key concepts: ‘dil ki duri’ (distance between hearts) and ‘Dilli se duri’ (distance from the people of Jammu and Kashmir to Delhi), expressing hope that the prime minister aimed to bridge both gaps.
Abdullah noted it was a privilege to have the prime minister launch two critical projects in Jammu and Kashmir within just 15 days, the first being the virtual inauguration of the Jammu railway division the previous week.
“These initiatives will not only shorten the emotional distance but also the physical disconnect from Delhi,” Abdullah expressed, thanking the PM for his commitment.
He added that constituents frequently inquire about the timeline for the restoration of Jammu and Kashmir’s statehood. “My heart tells me that soon, Prime Minister, you will fulfill your third promise to the people, and that Jammu and Kashmir will regain its status as a state,” he stated.
Modi emphasized that Jammu and Kashmir is the jewel of India, expressing his desire for its beauty and prosperity. “There is an atmosphere of peace in Jammu and Kashmir, which has positively impacted tourism. Kashmir is currently embarking on a new chapter of development,” he remarked.
He also shared that the Kashmir valley would soon be connected by rail, generating excitement among locals.
Modi paid tribute to seven individuals who lost their lives in a terrorist attack near the tunnel on October 20 last year.
Post-inauguration, the prime minister entered the tunnel and interacted with project officials, as well as met the construction workers who diligently completed the project in challenging conditions.
Union Minister Nitin Gadkari and Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha were also present at the inauguration event.
This visit marks Modi’s first to Jammu and Kashmir since the assembly elections held in September-October of the previous year.
The newly inaugurated tunnel will enhance access to the scenic Sonamarg for tourists and locals during the winter months. Its construction was crucial for ensuring an all-weather road to the Ladakh region, as the Z-Morh road at Gagangir is vulnerable to avalanches.
Once completed, the Rs 6,800 crore Zojila tunnel will provide an all-weather route along the Srinagar-Leh road. The expected completion date for this project is 2028. (AGENCIES)
