‘Any provocation will be met with strong response’
Srinagar, Nov 06: Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Thursday blamed former Congress governments for the rise of terrorism in Kashmir, saying that during their tenure, infiltrators and terrorists were allowed to operate with impunity, leaving the region in turmoil for decades.
Addressing a public rally in Madhubani, Shah said, “Erstwhile Congress governments were responsible for the rise of terrorism in Kashmir. They did not take the threat seriously, while the Modi-led government has crushed terrorism at its roots.”
He alleged that during the tenure of former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, terrorists could infiltrate India, plant bombs, and escape without consequence. “During the Congress regime, under Sonia Gandhi and Manmohan Singh, Pakistani terrorists would enter, carry out attacks, and no action was taken against them. They were even offered Biryani,” Shah said.
Highlighting the present government’s tough stance, Shah referred to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, noting that Prime Minister Narendra Modi ordered Operation Sindoor, in which Indian forces crossed into Pakistan and eliminated the perpetrators within 20 days.
Shah warned that any provocation from across the border will be met with a strong response. “If terrorists fire bullets, they will be answered with shells,” he said.
Targeting Congress and its allies, Shah accused them of protecting infiltrators and claimed that a return of leaders like Lalu Prasad Yadav would open the door to renewed infiltration. He added that the NDA government has taken firm steps to identify and remove infiltrators across the country.
The Home Minister also announced a new development initiative in the region: a defence corridor in Mithila, where shells used against Pakistan will be manufactured locally.
Shah further criticized Congress leader Rahul Gandhi for commenting on the caste and religion of army personnel, saying, “The Army belongs to all Indians. We honour every soldier who wears the uniform.” (With inputs from KNO)
