"Modi's Struggle to Win Hearts in Transformed Kashmir"

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi made a rare pre-election visit to Indian-administered Kashmir, touting developmental projects worth $777m but failing to address key grievances of the region's residents, such as the restoration of statehood and democracy. The visit was criticized for mobilizing government employees to attend the rally, with many feeling compelled to participate. Modi's speech, which aimed to "win hearts," left many Kashmiris disappointed, as it did not offer substantive political messaging or reassurances about holding regional elections.