Union Minister Ramdas Athawale Addresses Public Meetings in Kulgam, Exudes Confidence in RPI’s Growth

Bhat Ashraf

Kulgam, Apr 20: Union Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment Ramdas Athawale on Monday attended public meetings at Malwan and Gudder areas of Kulgam district, where he expressed strong confidence in the growing presence of the Republican Party of India (RPI) in Jammu and Kashmir.

The programmes were organized by the Republican Party of India under the leadership of Athawale along with Dr. Manzoor Ahmed Khan, President J&K RPI. Hundreds of local residents participated in the gatherings, reflecting increasing public engagement with the party.

While addressing the media, Athawale said that the party is steadily gaining strength in the region and will emerge as a major political force in the future. He expressed optimism that the party would eventually form the government, stating that a large number of people are joining RPI, indicating growing public support.

He further said that the Government of India, led by Narendra Modi, is committed to ensuring comprehensive development across Jammu and Kashmir, particularly in key sectors such as roads, transportation, and education.

Speaking on the Women Reservation Bill, Athawale said the legislation is aimed at empowering women and strengthening reservation for Scheduled Castes (SC) and Scheduled Tribes (ST). He alleged that the Indian National Congress and other opposition parties are likely to oppose the bill and do not genuinely support the empowerment of women and marginalized communities.

During the programme at Gudder, several locals raised the demand for the construction of the Ashtal Bridge. Responding to the concerns, Athawale assured that he would take up the matter at a higher level and expressed hope that the bridge would be constructed in the future.