Amit Shah Slams Congress, Pakistan Over Article 370 Remarks Ahead of Jammu and Kashmir Elections

*September 19, 2024:* Union Home Minister Amit Shah launched a blistering attack on the Congress party, accusing it of aligning with anti-national forces over the issue of Article 370. His remarks came in the backdrop of ongoing election campaigns for the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly, where the National Conference and Congress have pledged to restore Article 370, a special provision that was abrogated by the Modi government in 2019.Shah’s criticism was triggered by Pakistan’s Defense Minister, Khawaja Asif, who voiced support for the National Conference’s stance on restoring Article 370. Asif’s comments created a stir, with Amit Shah asserting that the Congress and Pakistan share the same agenda when it comes to Kashmir. He accused the Congress of aligning with forces that are detrimental to India’s national interests. **”Congress’s Stand is Clear”**Amit Shah stated that Pakistan’s public endorsement of Congress’s position on Article 370 reveals the party’s real intentions. He emphasized that this is not the first time Congress has been on the wrong side of the Kashmir issue. “Rahul Gandhi has consistently supported anti-national forces, from questioning the Indian Army’s surgical strikes to now siding with Pakistan’s narrative on Kashmir,” Shah remarked. **Restoration of Article 370**The National Conference, a key player in the Jammu and Kashmir political scene, has promised to amend Article 370 if it wins the upcoming elections. Congress, while not directly commenting on the issue, has remained ambiguous, which Shah interpreted as tacit support. Pakistan’s defense minister also expressed confidence in the possibility of an alliance victory in Kashmir, further fueling the controversy. **Amit Shah’s Strong Response**Amit Shah made it clear that the central government, under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, has no intention of reinstating Article 370. “Article 370 will not be restored,” Shah declared, adding that the BJP is committed to maintaining Kashmir’s integration with India and eradicating terrorism in the region. **Congress’s Alleged Ties with Anti-National Forces**The Home Minister didn’t hold back, accusing Congress of repeatedly joining hands with anti-national elements. “They have forgotten that there is a strong Modi government at the Centre,” Shah said, while reaffirming the BJP’s stance on national security and its firm stand on Jammu and Kashmir.As the political debate intensifies ahead of the elections, Shah’s remarks have set the tone for a contentious battle, with Article 370 at the heart of the campaign. Both the Congress and National Conference have yet to officially respond to Shah’s scathing critique.