The BJP's Youth Wing – Bharatiya Janata Yuva Morcha (BJYM) – held its first convention in Jammu and Kashmir on Sunday, with the wing's leader Poonam Mahajan and deputy Chief Minister Nirmal Singh in attendance for the occasion.
Speaking at the 1,000-strong convention, Mahajan claimed the three years of BJP rule in Jammu and Kashmir had led the state to prosperity even as she blamed "some elements" for trying to create hurdles in the path of development.
"The three years of BJP government in Jammu and Kashmir has led to the prosperity of the state and the present gathering indicates as much."
According to Indian Express, both Mahajan and Singh cited former Prime Minister and BJP stalwart Atal Bihari Vajpayee, and his "doctrine of Insaniyat, Jamhooriyat and Kashmiriyat."
Referring to a recent visit to Pakistan, Singh told the rally:
Once, a Pakistani asked me how I felt, and I said it was as if I am in Jammu and Kashmir. He asked if I was from India and I said I am the state president of Vajpayee’s party in Jammu and Kashmir. He stood up, hugged me and said the world doesn’t have a politician like Atal Bihari Vajpayee. He [Vajpayee] stretched the hand of friendship even in an atmosphere like Kargil. He said that friends can be changed but neighbours can’t.
Meanwhile, Mahajan also lauded the youth of the state for being for being resolute in the face of hardships.
"Despite hardships and tough circumstances, [Kashmiri] youth didn't lose hope. They want to live with India. They want to live for prosperity," she said.
"India's future is sitting here," Mahajan said, pointing towards the gathering, as she promised that the BJP would work for their welfare.
"We joined hands, our hearts are also open for Kashmiris," she said.
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