Prime Minister Modi’s resolute leadership has not only corrected a historical wrong but has also paved the way for the region’s full integration into the national mainstream.
For decades, the contentious issue of Article 370 had cast a long shadow over Jammu and
Kashmir, hindering the region’s progress and perpetuating a sense of alienation from the Indian mainstream. The archaic legislation, the relic of a bygone era, had be come a symbol of the region’s isolation, stifling its development and denying its people the fundamental rights and privileges enjoyed by their fellow citizens across the nation.
The origins of this controversial provision can be traced back to the negotiations between the erstwhile leaders of the time, Jawaharlal Nehru and Sheikh Abdullah. While Nehru himself expressed frustration with Abdullah’s lack of political foresight and tendency to make inappropriate statements, he ultimately acquiesced to the Sheikh’s demands under the Nehru-Abdullah Pact, effectively granting Kashmir virtual independence within India. This decision, made after Sardar Patel’s death, was criticised by those who viewed it as detrimental to national unity. The concessions made to Abdullah were met with strong opposition from various quarters. Congress leader Mohani objected to the discrimination, asking, “Why this discrimination, please?” Dr Ambedkar, who was approached by Abdullah for securing special provisions for Jammu and Kashmir, vehemently opposed the demands, stating, “India should provide all the money for the governance and development of
your state. India should undertake to defend your state against Pakistan and other
aggressors. Indians should die to defend your state. You will have a separate constitution, separate head of state, separate sets of laws and a separate flag. Your people can buy and own land any where in rest of India but none who was not born in Jammu and Kashmir could reciprocally buy and own property in Jammu and Kashmir. Indians should be taxed to develop your land, to defend it from all aggressions and you have no obligation at all to the Indian Union. I can never agree to such treatment to any state.”
Even though some, particularly the Jana Sangh, strongly opposed it, Article 370, which initially offered Kashmir a temporary period of special autonomy, was made permanent. This decision caused criticism, with the Jana Sangh calling it a giveaway of India’s interests
and a weak response to Muslim demands for separation. For decades, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) remained steadfast in its commitment to abolishing Article 370, a stance rooted in its un wavering belief in bringing the nation together. Even when the party held only a
few seats in Parliament, this resolve burned bright, symbolized by Narendra Modi’s courageous act of hoisting the Indian Tricolour in Lal Chowk, Srinagar, during the Ekta Yatra in the early 1990s.
When the BJP secured a decisive mandate in 2014, expectations grew for the fulfillment of its long-standing promises, including the abrogation of Article 370. Critics dismissed these
aspirations as mere political rhetoric, but in 2019, the Modi government took the bold step of revoking the contentious article, ushering in a new era for Jammu and Kashmir.
The Supreme Court’s land mark verdict upholding the abrogation marked a pivotal moment in India’s pursuit of unity and integration. It paved the way for Jammu and Kashmir to shed the shackles of archaic laws and embrace a future brimming with unparalleled opportunities and empowerment. The impact of this transformative decision has been profound, with the Prime Minister himself emphasizing the fast-paced development in the region during his recent visit. The establishment of world-class institutions such as AIIMS facilities, medical colleges, cancer hospitals, IITs, IIMs, and improved connectivity through Vande Bharat trains have become tangible symbols of progress.
The successful organization of the G-20 tourism summit in Jammu and Kashmir showcased the region’s potential as a tourist destination, with over 2 crore tourists visiting the Union Territory in 2023, breaking all previous records. The Amarnath Yatra saw the highest
number of pilgrims in the last decade, while Vaishno Devi is witnessing visits by an unprecedented number of devotees. Foreign tourist arrivals have more than doubled compared to previous years, underscoring the region’s growing appeal as a tourist destination.
For too long, an outdated legislation had stifled progress in the valley, fostering a sense of isolation. The current development boom could have been a reality far sooner, had previous Central and State governments exhibited the necessary political determination.
One might infer that these past administrations prioritized maintaining the status quo, securing their own dominance, over genuinely developing and empowering the people of Jammu and Kashmir. Prime Minister Modi’s resolute leadership has not only corrected a historical wrong but has also paved the way for the region’s full integration into the national
mainstream. No longer will the people of Jammu and Kashmir be treated as second-class citizens, denied the fundamental rights and privileges that their fellow Indians enjoy.
This transformative change has brought a profound shift in the mindset of the region’s
youth, who now harbour very different aspirations than their predecessors. Disillusioned by the false promises of separatism and the cycle of violence that had engulfed their homeland, the youth of Jammu and Kashmir today have embraced a new reality—one that prioritises career growth, skills training, and contributing towards the nation’s development. No longer willing to being misled into militancy and stone-pelting, they have
chosen to channel their energy into more constructive goals, taking advantage of the opportunities created by the Modi government’s initiatives. With a renewed sense of patriotism and a desire to build their own future, these young minds are now focused on becoming professionals, entrepreneurs, and leaders who can drive Jammu and Kashmir’s
growth with their talent and hard work. The empowerment of women, who were long sup
pressed by regressive norms, has taken a giant leap forward. The revocation of Article 35A has dismantled the barriers that once denied them equal rights to property and inheritance.
This milestone paves the way for their emancipation, fostering an environment where they
can thrive as equal partners in the region’s progress. The abolition of triple talaq by the BJP government was a moment of joy for Muslim women across India, including those in Jammu and Kashmir. They appreciated Prime Minister Modi’s efforts towards women’s upliftment when triple talaq was abolished. However, the impact was even more significant, like a double bonanza for the women in the Kashmir Valley after the abolition of Articles 370 and 35A. This is a reflection of PM Modi’s visionary leadership and his dedication to nation-building that the steps he took provided double benefits to the valley. Remarkably, these reforms were implemented within a quarter, showcasing effective governance and a
commitment to equality.
Undoubtedly, the path ahead is not without challenges, but PM Modi’s unwavering commitment to rooting out the scourge of terrorism has instilled a renewed sense of hope and security. The abrogation of Article 370 has dealt a severe blow to the nefarious
designs of those seeking to undermine the nation’s integrity, sending an unequivocal message that India will not tolerate any threats to its sovereignty. As Jammu and Kashmir
embarks on this transformative journey, the nation stands united in its resolve to ensure that the region’s potential is realized to the fullest. The youth, women and every citizen can now look forward to a future where their dreams are no longer constrained by the shackles
of the past but are nurtured by the boundless opportunities that await them. Prime Minister Modi’s vision for Jammu and Kashmir is one of prosperity, empowerment, and unity, a vision that has the power to reshape the region’s destiny and etcha new chapter in India’s narrative of progress and inclusivity. The abrogation of Article 370 has unshackled the valley from the chains of the past, unlocking a future where the people of Jammu and Kashmir can truly soar as equal partners in the nation’s growth and development.
Kartikeya Sharma is a Rajya Sabha member.