SUHAIL KHAN
SRINAGAR, Dec 16: Union Home Minister Amit Shah stated that the permanent integration of Kashmir with India followed the abrogation of Article 370.
He emphasized that this integration not only solidifies India’s sovereignty but also paves the way for peace, progress, and a stronger bond among all citizens, reinforcing the belief that Kashmir is an integral part of the nation.
During an event in Raipur, as per Kashmir Despatch, Shah asserted that Prime Minister Modi has fulfilled Sardar Patel’s unfinished mission by abrogating Article 370, thus permanently integrating Kashmir with India. He described this significant move as a transformative step towards fostering national unity and ensuring the region’s development and stability.
With a focus on empowering the local population, the government aims to enhance economic opportunities, improve infrastructure, and provide essential services, thereby creating a brighter future for the people of Kashmir.
Earlier, while speaking at a national TV channel event, Amit Shah noted that for the first time in 33 years, over 2 crore pilgrims visited Jammu and Kashmir. He highlighted that cinemas have reopened in the region after a 30-year hiatus, and a Muharram procession took place for the first time in over three decades. Shah remarked that the level of investment in Jammu and Kashmir over the past five years, following the abrogation of Article 370, has been comparable to the total received in the region during the previous 75 years since independence, which he believes indicates a prevailing peace in Jammu and Kashmir.
As per Kashmir Despatch, Shah pointed out that elections in Jammu and Kashmir were previously marred by violence. However, this time, elections for 30,000 panchayat members, including Panchs, Sarpanchs, Tehsil Panchayat, and Zila Panchayat members, were conducted without a single shot fired, and no fatalities were reported. He emphasized that there was no need for re-polling, which serves as a significant indicator of the improving situation in the region.
He further stated that, thanks to the peaceful environment, the BJP government fulfilled its commitment by conducting Assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir, leading to the establishment of a popular government that underscores the region’s progress.
In response to questions regarding the restoration of statehood, Amit Shah mentioned that this matter would be addressed at an appropriate time, adding that it is not suitable to discuss such issues on a public platform.
