In a fiery address at a rally in West Bengal’s Serampore, Union Home Minister Amit Shah reiterated India’s claim over Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), declaring, “PoK is part of India, and we will take it.” Shah’s remarks came amidst reports of protests in PoK, echoing sentiments of independence that once reverberated in Kashmir.
Shah criticized Congress leaders, particularly Mani Shankar Aiyar, for their apprehension towards reclaiming PoK, dismissing concerns about Pakistan’s nuclear capabilities. He emphasized the BJP’s firm stance on national sovereignty, reaffirming India’s determination to assert its territorial integrity.
The Home Minister also targeted West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, accusing her of appeasing infiltrators and obstructing central projects in the state. Shah condemned Banerjee’s opposition to the Citizenship (Amendment) Act (CAA), asserting that the BJP stands for granting citizenship to persecuted minorities from neighboring countries.
Shah’s speech resonated with the BJP’s electoral narrative, framing the ongoing parliamentary elections as a battle between dynastic politics and the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He contrasted the BJP’s commitment to development and nationalism with the alleged corruption and appeasement politics of opposition parties.
In response, the Trinamool Congress (TMC) refuted Shah’s allegations of corruption, dismissing them as baseless propaganda. TMC leaders criticized the BJP for resorting to divisive rhetoric and expressed confidence in their electoral prospects.
As the political discourse intensifies in West Bengal, Shah’s impassioned address underscored the BJP’s determination to assert its ideological agenda and consolidate support ahead of the upcoming elections.
