Preparations have started for assembly polls in J-K, says PM Modi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi said in Srinagar on Thursday that preparations to hold assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) have begun, and that the day is near when statehood will be restored to the Union Territory.

Addressing an event in the evening — after inaugurating 84 developmental projects worth Rs 1,500 crore and Rs 1,800 crore worth of agriculture sector-related projects in Srinagar — Modi also said the Centre has taken “a serious note” of the recent terror attacks in the UT.

He added that the Union Home Minister has reviewed the security situation and people inimical to the interests of J&K will get a befitting reply.

Recalling the “uncertainty” of the 1990s, the PM said the 2024 election results have conveyed a message of stability.

Modi, who landed in Srinagar on Thursday afternoon, will lead the International Day of Yoga celebrations at the Sher-i-Kashmir International Conference Centre on Friday.

Earlier this year, the Supreme Court had asked the Centre to hold J&K assembly elections in September.