Amit Shah vows to respond with bullets in Poonch rally

On Saturday, Union Home Minister Amit Shah addressed a large BJP rally in the Mendhar area of Poonch district, Jammu and Kashmir. He emphasized a strong stance against cross-border firing, stating that any bullets fired from across the Line of Control would be met with bullets in return, not dialogue. Shah highlighted the shift in power dynamics, asserting that Pakistan now fears Prime Minister Modi, contrasting it with previous administrations that were intimidated by Pakistan's influence. During his speech, Shah urged the local population to support the BJP candidate, Murtaza Khan, and praised the achievements of the Modi government since 2014. He claimed that the current administration has facilitated significant political changes, including the introduction of Panchayat, Block Development Council, and District Development Council elections, which he argued have empowered local youth. Shah also criticized the political monopoly of certain families in the region and addressed issues of reservation for different communities, asserting that the BJP is committed to equitable opportunities for all. He promised improvements in local infrastructure, including better roads and educational facilities, and pledged to provide employment opportunities for youth in security forces. The rally served as a platform for Shah to reinforce the BJP's commitment to national security and development in Jammu and Kashmir, aiming to rally support for the party ahead of upcoming elections. His remarks reflect a broader strategy to consolidate power in the region by appealing to local sentiments and addressing longstanding grievances.