PM Modi’s First Rally in Srinagar: Development Agenda Amidst Controversy Security tightened for Modi
Srinagar, March 6, 2024: Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s impending visit to Jammu and Kashmir on Thursday has sparked a flurry of activity and controversy. Scheduled to address a rally in Srinagar, this marks Modi’s first visit to Kashmir since the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019. However, amidst the anticipation of development projects worth over ₹6,400 crore being unveiled and promises of progress, former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Omar Abdullah has levied serious allegations against the government’s handling of the event.
Abdullah took to social media to claim that the Jammu and Kashmir administration has resorted to coercive measures to ensure a large turnout for the PM’s rally. In a tweet on Wednesday, Abdullah alleged that thousands of government employees were mandated to assemble as early as 4:30 AM in freezing temperatures to be bused to the venue. He further claimed that non-compliance was met with threats of disciplinary action. The tweet included a screenshot purportedly showing a list of 700 participants.
“The dictatorial J&K Govt has pulled out all stops to give the PM a crowd because the BJP can’t manage anything in J&K without the administration. Employees, men & women both, in their 1000s are being asked to assemble between 4:30 AM & 5:30 AM in the freezing temperatures to be bused to the venue. This participation isn’t optional, it’s compulsory. Employees who don’t show up are been threatened with disciplinary action by their Dept heads. Private schools like DPS Etc have had their buses commandeered to transport all these employees to the venue,” Abdullah’s tweet read.
Viksit Bharat, Viksit Jammu Kashmir
Despite the controversy swirling around the event, PM Modi’s itinerary remains packed with various programmes aimed at bolstering development in the region. The Prime Minister is slated to launch the Holistic Agriculture Development Programme, aimed at providing skill development to around 2.5 lakh farmers in Jammu and Kashmir through the dedicated Daksh Kisan portal. Additionally, approximately 2000 Kisan Khidmat Ghars will be established under this initiative.
Furthermore, Modi is set to dedicate 52 tourism sector projects, valued at over ₹1400 crore, under the Swadesh Darshan and PRASHAD Scheme. Among these projects, the ‘Integrated Development of Hazratbal Shrine’ in Srinagar holds significance.
“I will be in Srinagar tomorrow, 7th March, to take part in the ‘Viksit Bharat Viksit Jammu Kashmir’ programme. Various development works will also be dedicated to the nation. Notable among them are works worth over Rs. 5000 crore relating to boosting the agro-economy. Various works linked with tourism will also be dedicated to the nation,” PM Modi announced on social media ahead of his visit.
Disruption and Security Measures
The anticipation surrounding PM Modi’s visit has led to disruptions in daily life in Srinagar. According to reports, several schools along the prime minister’s route have been closed for Wednesday and Thursday, while board examinations scheduled for Thursday have been postponed until the following month.
Moreover, in light of security concerns, the flying of drones and quadcopters has been temporarily banned in Srinagar. The Srinagar Police issued a directive on Wednesday, declaring the city as a ‘Temporary Red Zone’ for the operation of drones and quadcopters, citing provisions of the Drone Rules, 2021.
FAQ: PM Modi’s First Rally in Srinagar: Development Agenda Amidst Controversy Security tightened for Modi
Q: Why is PM Modi visiting Srinagar?
A: Prime Minister Narendra Modi is visiting Srinagar to address a public rally and unveil several development projects, marking his first visit to Kashmir since the abrogation of Article 370.
Q: What are the allegations made by former CM Omar Abdullah?
A: Former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Omar Abdullah has alleged that the government is coercing government employees to attend PM Modi’s rally by threatening disciplinary action and mandating early assembly in freezing temperatures.
Q: What development projects will PM Modi unveil?
A: PM Modi is set to launch the Holistic Agriculture Development Programme, dedicate 52 tourism sector projects, and unveil works worth over ₹5000 crore aimed at boosting the agro-economy in Jammu and Kashmir.
Q: Are there any disruptions expected due to PM Modi’s visit?
A: Yes, several schools along the prime minister’s route have been closed, and board examinations scheduled for Thursday have been postponed. Additionally, the flying of drones and quadcopters has been banned in Srinagar temporarily.
Q: When is PM Modi’s visit scheduled?
A: Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Srinagar is scheduled for Thursday, March 7, 2024.
Q: What security measures are in place for PM Modi’s visit?
A: Security measures include the temporary ban on flying drones and quadcopters in Srinagar, along with heightened surveillance and deployment of law enforcement personnel.
Conclusion
As Prime Minister Narendra Modi gears up for his historic visit to Srinagar, allegations of coercion and disruptions cast a shadow over the event. While the government emphasizes the significance of development initiatives for Jammu and Kashmir, concerns regarding security and the handling of dissent persist. Amidst the anticipation and controversy, all eyes remain on the outcome of PM Modi’s rally and the impact of the unveiled projects on the region’s future.