Marking seven years since the abrogation of Article 370, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday said the decision had ushered in a new era of development and empowerment in Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh, while reiterating the Centre’s commitment to ensuring inclusive growth and opportunities for the people of both Union Territories.
The Prime Minister said the constitutional changes introduced on August 5, 2019, had transformed governance and accelerated development across multiple sectors, including infrastructure, education, healthcare, entrepreneurship and sports.
PM Modi Highlights Seven Years Of Transformation
Sharing a message on X, Prime Minister Modi described the removal of Articles 370 and 35A as a historic milestone that changed the course of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh.”Seven years ago, on this day, Articles 370 and 35(A) became history, marking a decisive new chapter in the journey of Jammu and Kashmir as well as Ladakh.”
He added that the full implementation of the Constitution of India had strengthened the rights of citizens, particularly women and socially disadvantaged communities who had remained deprived of several constitutional benefits for decades.”Since then, the lives of the people of J&K and Ladakh have witnessed wide-ranging transformation. Infrastructure has expanded, opportunities in areas such as education, healthcare, entrepreneurship and sports have grown. Be it the women or the marginalised communities, those who were denied their basic constitutional rights for decades have been empowered thanks to the full application of the Constitution of India.”
Tribute To Dr Syama Prasad Mookerjee
The Prime Minister noted that this year’s anniversary carries added significance as the country prepares to commemorate the 125th birth anniversary of Bharatiya Jana Sangh founder Dr Syama Prasad Mookerjee.”His lifelong commitment to national unity continues to inspire generations. What he envisioned decades ago found historic fulfilment on 5th August 2019.”
Centre Reiterates Vision For ‘Viksit Bharat’
Reaffirming the government’s long-term vision, PM Modi said the Centre would continue working towards the progress of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh by creating greater opportunities for every citizen.”We reaffirm our commitment to the progress of Jammu and Kashmir as well as Ladakh and to ensure that every citizen has the opportunity to dream big, achieve and contribute to the making of a Viksit Bharat.”
Background
Article 370, which granted special constitutional status to the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir, became part of the Indian Constitution in 1950. On August 5, 2019, the Central government revoked the provision through a Presidential Order and simultaneously reorganised the former state into the Union Territories of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh, bringing an end to its special constitutional status.
