Shimla, August 5: Kavinder Gupta, the former Deputy Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir and the current Governor of Himachal Pradesh, shared his insights on the changes in Jammu and Kashmir as the region marks seven years since the abrogation of Article 370. He stated that the removal of Article 370 has ushered in a new era of peace, development, and equal rights, effectively curbing decades of separatism, terrorism, and discrimination.
Gupta emphasized that he has closely observed the conditions in Jammu and Kashmir over the past 50 years. The region has endured challenging times marked by terrorism, migration, and violence. He noted that it was essential to end separatism, terrorism, corruption, and dynastic politics, and today, this success is evident. He recalled the vision of Shyama Prasad Mukherjee, the founder of the Bharatiya Jana Sangh, who entered Jammu and Kashmir with the resolve of “One Constitution, One Flag, One Leader,” a vision that was tragically cut short by his untimely death. The struggles of the past decades have finally borne fruit, and significant steps have been taken towards realizing that vision following the abrogation of Article 370.
The Governor claimed that previously, Jammu and Kashmir was plagued by stone-pelting, separatist activities, and elements supported by Pakistan. However, there has been substantial control over these issues now. The Tricolor, once a symbol of fear at Lal Chowk, now proudly waves, a point of pride for every Indian.
Gupta remarked that the “Kashmir issue” was presented with a distinct identity for years, but the circumstances have now completely changed. He believes that the primary issue now is only that of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (POK). Congratulating the people of Jammu and Kashmir, he stated that the abrogation of Article 370 has granted long-denied rights to marginalized communities. He specifically mentioned the Valmiki community, Gorkha community, and refugees from West Pakistan, who have now received constitutional rights after decades of deprivation.
He recalled that in 2018, when he was the Deputy Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, his party withdrew support from the state government. This led to significant developments, and the removal of Article 370 has fulfilled many expectations of the people. Currently, tourism in Jammu and Kashmir is rapidly increasing, and there is extensive development of infrastructure. Anyone visiting Jammu and Kashmir today can clearly feel the difference between the past and present conditions. This transformation has been made possible by a strong central government, in contrast to the appeasement policies of previous weak governments that had long affected the region’s situation.
Congratulating the citizens of Jammu and Kashmir and the entire nation, Kavinder Gupta concluded that the changes in the region represent a significant achievement towards peace, development, and national unity.
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