Kashmiri Man's 30-Year Friendship with PM Modi Forged Over Shared Mission to Unfurl Indian Flag Amidst Separatist Terror
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Ashraf Azad, a 60-year-old man, has been friends with PM Modi for over 3 decades since 1992 when Azad was impressed by BJP leaders' commitment to hoist the Indian flag in Kashmir amidst terrorism.
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Azad hosted PM Modi at his home in Budgam for 10 days back then. Modi introduced himself as a social activist and interacted with villagers across Kashmir to understand separatism.
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Inspired by BJP leaders' courage, Azad left his extremist leanings and joined politics with the BJP in the 1990s. He contested elections but didn't receive any major positions.
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Over the years, Azad and Modi have met regularly. Modi always inquires about Azad's family and area. Azad says no other politician matches Modi's ground knowledge of Kashmir.
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Recently, the two friends met at Srinagar airport where Modi introduced Azad as his old friend and appreciated his efforts in organizing the gathering.