BJP warns PDP, NC: 'No tolerance if poll promises compromise national interests'

Ravi Shankar Prasad questioned if Rahul Gandhi and the Congress were secretly supporting the restoration of Article 370, urging for a clear stance from the Congress leadership.

BJP on August 25 issued a stern warning to political parties in Jammu and Kashmir, saying if their election manifestos endorses violence, terrorism, or external funding, the Central government would not tolerate.

At a press conference at the BJP headquarters, senior BJP leader Ravi Shankar Prasad responded to queries about the upcoming assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir, scheduled for September 18, September 25, and October 1.

Results are scheduled to be announced on October 4.

"Whatever they say for the elections, there will be no compromise with the country's interests, be it Mehbooba Mufti, Farooq Abdullah or Omar Abdullah," Prasad asserted. He underscored the BJP's zero-tolerance stance on issues related to national security, adding, "If in their manifesto they advocate for stone pelters, terrorists and those who take funds from Pakistan, then the government of India will take strict action. Let it be very clear."

The former Union minister’s remarks were directed at recent promises by the PDP and the National Conference (NC) in their election campaigns.

He also criticized the Congress for its alliance with the NC, questioning Congress leader Rahul Gandhi about the party’s position on the potential reinstatement of Articles 370 and 35A.

He pointed out that the National Conference has advocated for the reinstatement of these articles, which were abrogated on August 5, 2019, leading to the bifurcation of Jammu and Kashmir into two Union territories. "What has happened to the Congress party? Rahul Gandhi should make them understand that any proposal to reinstate Article 370 can find its way only with a constitutional amendment by Parliament," the BJP leader said.

Prasad challenged the feasibility of such a proposal, stating, "How many Lok Sabha seats are there in Kashmir? Will that be enough to fulfil the requirement (of passing a Constitutional amendment in Parliament)?"

He further questioned if Rahul Gandhi and the Congress were secretly supporting the restoration of Article 370, urging for a clear stance from the Congress leadership.

Prasad said that if the Congress wants, a motion for such a constitutional amendment in Parliament may be admitted.

"Then Rahul Gandhi should clarify if he is also secretly talking about restoration of Article 370 there. This is a serious question," Prasad added.

(With PTI inputs)