Chhotaudepur : Union Home Minister and senior BJP leader Amit Shah, addressing a gathering at an election meeting in Bodeli, Chhotaudepur district, refuted the claims made by Congress regarding reservation and the Constitution. Shah emphasized that as long as the BJP government is in power at the Centre, reservation will be protected. He accused Congress of being the number one anti-tribal party.

Shah highlighted the efforts of the Central Government in tribal development, citing Prime Minister Modi's initiatives that have positively impacted the lives of millions of poor people. He referenced Baba Saheb Ambedkar's vision in the Constitution, advocating for tribal inclusion in budget allocations proportional to their population. Shah noted that under Narendra Modi's leadership, Gujarat became the first state to allocate 14 percent of its budget to tribal welfare.

Criticizing Congress's record, Shah pointed out the absence of a tribal ministry during their tenure and credited Atal Bihari Vajpayee's government for establishing a separate tribal department ministry in 1999.

Shah also attacked Congress's appeasement policy, citing the example of Karnataka where Congress allegedly reduced the OBC community's reservation to accommodate a 5 percent quota for Muslims. He accused Congress of stealing reservation under the guise of social justice.

Referring to statements by Congress's Mallikarjun Kharge questioning Gujarat and Rajasthan's concern for Kashmir, Shah asserted that every Gujarati is ready to sacrifice for Kashmir. He criticized Rahul Gandhi for opposing the removal of Article 370, stating that despite his warnings of bloodshed, the region remained peaceful after its abrogation, showcasing the BJP's resolve and strength.

Shah expressed confidence in BJP's electoral prospects, predicting a significant victory for the party, particularly targeting Rahul Gandhi's candidacy in Rae Bareli. He concluded the rally with chants of "Jai Shree Ram" and urged support for BJP candidate Jashubhai Rathwa in Chhotaudepur.

CHHOTA UDEPUR, 27 September - Prime Minister Narendra Modi unveiled projects valued at Rs 5206 crore for the district during a gathering at Bodeli in Chhota Udepur. While addressing the audience, he highlighted several schemes tailored for tribal development and reminisced about his frequent visits to Chhota Udepur during his earlier years.

Elaborating on the development initiatives, PM Modi said, "The effort to bring WiFi to 22 districts and over 7,500 gram panchayats of Gujarat has been fulfilled. This will greatly enhance internet access in our rural areas." He shared nostalgic tales of his previous travels by bus through Chhota Udepur and Vadodara, expressing his close association with the region. "Seeing the transformation of Chhota Udepur, it's evident our persistent efforts are bearing fruit," he remarked.

Highlighting the rapid infrastructural and housing progress, PM Modi stated, "In a relatively short span, over 4 million robust houses have been constructed across India. There's absolute transparency in the process with direct transfers to beneficiary accounts." He proudly added, "While I don't own a personal residence, we've facilitated housing for countless daughters of our nation."

Emphasizing the resolution of the water crisis, he informed that provisions have been made to ensure tap water availability. The Prime Minister also stressed the significance of skill development and education in the region. "In the last 20 years, there's been a remarkable shift towards prioritizing education and skill development. We've inaugurated 5 new medical colleges primarily for the tribal populace and established Vandhan centers in tribal villages," he noted.

The Prime Minister ended his address by discussing the Nari Shakti Vandan Act, hinting at the prospect of the country having a tribal woman as its President, showcasing his dedication towards empowering women and tribal communities.