'J&K was labeled disputed because of National Conference': Kishan Reddy
What's the story
Union Minister G Kishan Reddy, who is also the Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) in-charge for the assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir, has accused the National Conference (NC) of contributing to the region's "disputed" status.
He alleged that it was due to NC's actions that Article 370 was imposed.
"Jammu and Kashmir was termed disputed because of National Conference. It was the NC that brought Article 370 into existence and enforced it here," Reddy told reporters on Friday.
Criticism
Reddy criticizes NC's role in J&K's challenges
Reddy also accused the Farooq Abdullah-led party of fostering corruption and escalating cross-border terrorism in India.
He labeled Article 370 as the "fundamental source of numerous problems" in J&K, claiming it denied people their rights and entrenched dynastic rule.
The BJP-led central government abrogated Article 370 on August 5, 2019, which had granted special rights to J&K and subsequently divided the former state into two union territories.
Development claims
Reddy highlights post-Article 370 progress in J&K
Reddy further stated that if the NC had not been in power, J&K would have progressed on par with other states in India.
He claimed that following the abrogation of Article 370, J&K has seen a return to peace with numerous development projects underway.
Urging voters to support the BJP in the current elections, he said this would maintain the momentum of peace, progress and prosperity in the region.
Election expectations
Reddy confident in J&K voters' decision
Speaking about the polls being held in J&K after a gap of 10 years, Reddy expressed confidence in the voters.
"The people of Jammu and Kashmir have a significant responsibility. I believe they will make the right decision after considering all aspects," he said.
Twenty-four assembly seats voted in phase 1 of assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir on September 18.