New Delhi , Nov 06 : Smriti Irani, a senior leader from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), strongly criticized the opposition INDIA bloc in response to tensions in the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly. The disruptions began after Khurshid Ahmad Sheikh, an MLA from the Awami Ittehad Party and the brother of former legislator Engineer Rashid, unfurled a banner on Article 370, reigniting debate over the provision that was abrogated in 2019.
During a press conference, Irani reaffirmed the BJP’s stance, stating firmly that Article 370 will not be restored. She questioned the INDIA bloc, which includes the Congress and other allied parties, on their position regarding the rights of the tribal community in Jammu and Kashmir, which were reinforced following the removal of Article 370. Irani accused the bloc of “tactical support for extremism and terrorism” and suggested that their actions in Jammu and Kashmir disrespected the rights of marginalized communities, including tribals, Dalits, and women.
Irani emphasized that these alleged actions by the opposition alliance would not be tolerated, citing that a “vigilant India” stands opposed to any perceived threats to the integrity of the Indian Constitution and its principles.