BJP celebrates 5 years since abrogation of Article 370 amidst political tensions
PM Modi commemorated the day, describing it as a turning point in India’s history; BJP leaders say they celebrate this occasion with immense joy and optimism; PDP’s chief Mehbooba Mufti condemned the abrogation as a “black day”
Mir Aasif
Srinagar, Aug 05 (KB): The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in Kashmir marked the fifth anniversary of the abrogation of Article 370 with a spirited celebration at their party office in Jawahar Nagar, Srinagar.
As per the details collected by the Kashmir Bulletin (KB), the celebration, characterized by the distribution of sweets and reflections on the impact of the decision, highlighted the party’s optimism regarding the changes since August 5, 2019.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in a tweet, commemorated the day, describing it as a turning point in India’s history. He emphasized that the abrogation marked the beginning of a new era of progress and prosperity for Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh. Modi asserted that the move ensured the implementation of the Indian Constitution fully in the region and brought security, dignity, and opportunities to previously marginalized communities.
He also highlighted a reduction in corruption and expressed the government’s continued commitment to fulfilling the aspirations of the people.
Meanwhile, at the BJP event, leaders expressed pride in the transformation observed in the region, particularly noting the significant decrease in stone-pelting incidents as an indicator of improved security. “The celebration underscored the party’s belief that the abrogation has fostered a more peaceful and stable environment, contributing to enhanced economic and social activities,” said a leader here in Srinagar’s party headquarters.
“We celebrate this occasion with immense joy and optimism,” stated another BJP leader, adding that the abrogation of Article 370 has ushered in an era of peace and opportunity for the people of Kashmir.
However, the anniversary also highlighted ongoing political tensions. Several prominent leaders from the valley have reported being confined to their homes, with allegations of detentions. Notable figures such as Tanvir Sadiq and Salman Sagar of the National Conference, as well as Iltija Mufti, daughter of PDP leader Mehbooba Mufti, among ANC’s Muzaffar Shah, have expressed their grievances on social media, showing locked gates and criticizing the abrogation as a “dark day” for Jammu and Kashmir.
Mehbooba Mufti condemned the abrogation as a “black day” and a betrayal of India’s democratic principles. She argued that the decision disempowered and dismembered the semi-autonomous state, leading to what she described as a silenced and threatened region falsely portrayed as peaceful.—(KB)
