8 November, 2024; Prime Minister Narendra Modi has firmly dismissed calls for the restoration of Articles 370 and 35A in Jammu and Kashmir, stating that Article 370 is now “history.” Modi made his stance clear in response to growing demands from opposition parties to reinstate the articles, which had granted special autonomy to Jammu and Kashmir before being abrogated in August 2019.
The Prime Minister also took a direct aim at the Congress Party, accusing it of supporting separatist and pro-Pakistan ideologies. Modi argued that Congress’s stance is counterproductive to national unity, emphasizing that the revocation of Article 370 has paved the way for stronger integration of Jammu and Kashmir with the rest of India. His comments seem to reflect his belief that Congress’s position aligns more with appeasement policies toward Pakistan than with India’s sovereignty.
This rhetoric was amplified after statements by National Conference leader and former Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, who claimed that the central government had “cheated” the people of Jammu and Kashmir by unilaterally revoking the articles without consulting local stakeholders. Abdullah expressed deep dissatisfaction, arguing that the central government’s actions disregarded the region’s unique historical and cultural significance within India.
In his speech, Modi reinforced his dedication to preserving the unity of Jammu and Kashmir within India, reiterating that promises made during the election campaign to keep Article 370 nullified remain intact. He insisted that the central government’s policies in Jammu and Kashmir were aimed at promoting economic growth, national security, and social development for the region’s residents.
Meanwhile, tensions over this issue reached a boiling point in the Assembly, where a heated debate escalated into a physical altercation among legislators. Lawmakers clashed over the divisive issue, reflecting the deeply polarized perspectives on Jammu and Kashmir’s status and autonomy. Proponents for reinstating Article 370 argue that it is vital for preserving the region’s unique identity, while opponents view it as a hurdle to the full integration and development of Jammu and Kashmir.
As debate intensifies around Jammu and Kashmir’s political future, the issue of Article 370 remains a flashpoint. For the BJP, the revocation symbolizes a shift toward a more unified and stronger India. However, opposition parties like Congress and regional leaders continue to call for a reassessment of the decision, arguing that meaningful dialogue and regional autonomy are crucial for lasting peace and development in Jammu and Kashmir.
