Prime Minister Narendra Modi Friday said that the development of Jammu and Kashmir has been stagnant since the last 30 years and leaders here "indulge in corruption and emotional blackmail".
Addressing a rally for the BJP here ahead of the second phase of polls in Jammu and Kashmir, Modi said there have been a dozen prime ministers in India but none has had the opportunity to visit Jammu and Kashmir as much as he has had.
"I decided to spend Diwali with the flood-affected people here. My decision was not for politics, nor was it for gathering votes...," he said.
He added: "What has not happened in 30 years, if I do not do it in five years, then you can hold me accountable for it and even question me."
"Development has been stuck in Jammu and Kashmir for 30 years. Leaders from ruling and opposition parties indulge in corruption and emotional blackmail."
"We have to work towards the valley's development.. and I need your help in doing it," he said.