NEW DELHI: In a contentious session at the Lok Sabha, Union Home Minister Amit Shah criticized former Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru's decisions regarding Jammu and Kashmir. Shah asserted that Nehru's actions caused prolonged suffering in the region for decades.

Shah's remarks came during discussions on the Jammu and Kashmir Reservation Amendment and Jammu and Kashmir Reorganization Bills, both of which were subsequently approved by the Lok Sabha.

Highlighting Nehru's decisions, Shah mentioned that the ceasefire announcement during a critical juncture of the war with Pakistan was one of Nehru's major missteps. He claimed that timely action could have prevented Pakistan's occupation of Kashmir.

Moreover, Shah criticized Nehru's move to internationalize India's internal issue by involving the United Nations, terming it another strategic blunder. Opposition members staged a walkout in protest against Shah's remarks, labeling Nehru's decisions as historic blunders.

Shah emphasized that the bills passed aim to rectify injustices persisting for 70 years, ensuring representation for those who faced discrimination and had to leave Kashmir due to terrorism.

The Jammu and Kashmir Reservation Amendment Bill mandates reservation for OBCs and economically backward classes in professional institutions and government recruitment.

Meanwhile, the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganization Act reconstitutes the state into the Union Territories of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh. Notably, the legislative assembly's member strength will increase, with specific seats reserved for Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes and displaced persons from Pakistan Occupied Kashmir.

Former Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir and National Conference President, Farooq Abdullah, defended Nehru's decision to declare a ceasefire during the war citing the need to safeguard Poonch and Rajouri from going to Pakistan. He mentioned support from Lord Mountbatten and Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel in raising the Jammu and Kashmir issue at the United Nations.

The passing of these bills marks a significant step in addressing long-standing issues in Jammu and Kashmir, aiming for inclusive representation and development.