BJP hails Modi's 'inspiring' speech on J-K, Cong says it lacks conviction

The BJP hailed Prime Minister Narendra Modi's "inspiring" address to the nation on his government's action on Jammu and Kashmir on Thursday, but the opposition Congress said it was "hardly reassuring" for the people and lacked conviction.

BJP president and Union Home Minister said the prime minister shared his vision and commitment for the development of the people of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh region and and urged them "to be a part of this historic journey".

Reaching out to Kashmiris with messages of hope and optimism, the prime minister in a televised address to the nation assured them of all-round development, early and transparent elections and end to terrorism as he defended scrapping of Article 370, which he asserted, has only given separatism, corruption, family rule and was used by Pakistan as a tool to spread terror in Jammu and Kashmir.

In a series of tweets, Shah said, "During his address to the nation this evening, PM @NarendraModi has shared his vision and commitment for the development of the people of J&K and Ladakh region. The peace, prosperity and welfare of these regions is the top most priority for Prime Minister Narendra Modi."
Union Law Minister and senior BJP leader Ravi Shankar Prasad hailed the prime minister, saying, "Historic address by PM Narendra Modi. Jammu Kashmir and Ladakh is soon going to witness unprecedented growth and development creating better opportunities for people of the regions."
BJP general secretary Ram Madhav said, "PM's much needed reassuring n inspiring message to people of J&K and Ladakh. Focus on human development, political empowerment and good governance. Called upon countrymen including Bollywood, IT industry,business houses and all citizens to come forward to help Kashmiris progress and prosper."
Reacting to the PM's address to the nation, CPI general secretary D Raja said, "It is all rhetoric and nothing more. What stopped him from giving a statement in Parliament? This shows that as rulers this government only wants to address its subjects."
BJP spokesperson Shahnawaz Hussains said, "Prime Minister Modi has won the hearts of people of Jammu and Kashmir and the whole country. His speech was very touching."
Union minister Dharmendra Pradhan also lauded the prime minister saying, "Statesman like address to the nation by PM Narendra Modi ji, allaying all concerns around the steps taken in Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh. This will go a long way in winning the hearts and minds of people."