PM Modi On J&K After Article 370 Abrogation: ‘People Are Reaping Peace Dividend'

Prime Minister Narendra Modi defended the abrogation of Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir, highlighting that a significant decline in terror incidents has been observed as a result of the move.

PM Modi emphasized that organised shutdowns and stone pelting, which once disrupted normal life in Kashmir, are now considered things of the past.

Photo Credit: PTI

PM Modi On J&K After Article 370 Abrogation - Here's What He Said

Modi encouraged the reporter to visit the Union territory to witness firsthand the "sweeping positive changes happening on the ground," as reported by Newsweek during an interview. Referring to his visit to Srinagar last month, it was mentioned to the prime minister that for the first time, people have a new hope in their lives due to the ongoing process of development, good governance, and empowerment of the people, which needs to be seen to be believed.

The prime minister stated that more than 21 million tourists visited J&K last year and highlighted that sports are being viewed as a viable career path for several youths in the UT. He further mentioned that the abrogation of Article 370 resulted in "a new dawn" for Kashmiri women, who now have the same rights as their male counterparts in terms of inheriting or transferring property to their children, regardless of their marital status or residency, as reported by Hindustan Times.

On August 5, 2019, Article 370 was abrogated by the Narendra Modi government, leading to the bifurcation of the then-state of Jammu and Kashmir into two Union territories. On December 11 last year, a five-judge constitution bench of the Supreme Court upheld the decision, directing the holding of elections in the region by September 2024 and the restoration of statehood at the earliest.

The Lok Sabha polls in the Union Territory will be conducted in the first five phases on April 19 (Udhampur), April 26 (Jammu), May 7 (Anantnag-Rajouri), May 13 (Srinagar), and May 20 (Baramulla). The Election Commission has announced that the assembly elections in the now Union territory will be held immediately after the general elections, as per media reports.

"All parties in Jammu and Kashmir expressed their desire for the Assembly election to be held concurrently with the parliamentary polls, but the entire administrative machinery indicated that it cannot be done simultaneously. Every Assembly segment would have 10-12 candidates, which would result in more than 1,000 candidates. Every candidate would require security forces, which was not feasible at this time," mentioned Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar.

Highlights on PM Modi's Vision 2024

Apart from Article 370, PM Modi discussed on various aspects from internal to international. Here are the following highlights of the interview by Newsweek:

• On Fulfilling Promises and Good Governance - An excellent track record of promise fulfilment has been maintained, marking a departure from past practices where promises often went unfulfilled.
• Government Motto and Trust Among People - The motto "Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas, Sabka Prayas" has been adopted, reflecting a commitment to collective growth, trust, and effort.
• India's Economic Growth - India has progressed from being the 11th largest economy to the 5th largest, with aspirations to become the 3rd largest soon.
• Stability and Popular Support - Despite global trends of waning support for popular governments, India's government has seen increasing popular support in recent years.
• Democracy and Media's Role - India, as a democracy, values a free press and vibrant feedback mechanism, critical for sustaining democratic values.
• Infrastructure Development - The transformation of India's infrastructure has been rapid and extensive, enhancing connectivity and economic opportunities across the country.
• Climate Change Mitigation - India's commitment to fighting climate change is evident in its infrastructure development, leveraging renewable energy and promoting green initiatives.
• Attractiveness for Supply Chains and Global Manufacturing - India's economic reforms and regulatory framework have made it a preferred destination for global manufacturing and resilient supply chains.
• Digital Payments and Innovation - UPI's success reflects India's commitment to open, scalable, and secure technology, democratizing digital transactions.
• Empowerment and Social Mobility - India is leveraging its demographic dividend to empower its youth and ensure inclusive development across various sectors and geographies.
• Women Empowerment - Women-led development is a priority, evidenced by progressive legislation, increased participation across sectors, and empowerment schemes.
• Engagement with Indian Diaspora - Efforts to strengthen ties with the Indian diaspora highlight a commitment to their well-being and contributions to global society.
• Social Inclusivity and Welfare Schemes - India's welfare schemes have uplifted millions out of poverty, improving living standards and ensuring social inclusivity.
• Foreign Relations and Multilateral Engagements - India's participation in international groupings like Quad reflects a commitment to shared agendas and global cooperation.
• Border Dispute Resolution and Peaceful Relations - Efforts are underway to address prolonged border issues with neighbouring countries, emphasizing stability and peaceful coexistence.
• On the Significance of Ram Mandir - The dedication of the Ram Mandir marked a historic moment of unity for the nation, symbolizing centuries of perseverance and sacrifice.
• Representation and Aspirations - As part of the ceremony, I represented the aspirations of 1.4 billion Indians, eagerly awaiting the return of Ram Lalla to his birthplace.
• Ceremony and National Celebration - The consecration ceremony brought the nation together in celebration, illuminating every home with Ram Jyoti and resembling a second Diwali.
• Divine Blessing and National Experience - Experiencing the ceremony as a representative of 1.4 billion Indians was considered a divine blessing and a profound national experience.
• Legacy and Motivation - My motivation lies in impacting the lives of every Indian, ensuring dignity and the fulfilment of their dreams, rather than concern for personal remembrance.