Jammu and Kashmir Witnesses Remarkable Growth and Development After Abrogation of Articles 35-A & 370, Says Vice President

In a significant address at the Special Convocation Ceremony of the University of Jammu, Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar hailed the newfound progress and development in Jammu and Kashmir following the abrogation of Articles 35-A and 370. The region’s integration into the national mainstream has opened doors for investments, improved governance, and overall advancement.

Highlighting the temporary nature of Articles 35-A and 370, which endured for 70 years, the Vice President underscored that even the architect of the Indian Constitution, Dr. BR Ambedkar, had declined to draft Article 370. Expressing satisfaction at their removal, Dhankhar revealed his two-decade-long advocacy for their abrogation, considering them to be aberrations. He added, “We are happy that now it is not there.”

The Vice President emphasized the harmonious atmosphere prevailing in the region as the greatest homage to the life and mission of Dr. Shyama Prasad Mookerjee, who made the ultimate sacrifice for a strong and united India. He commemorated Dr. Mookerjee’s tragic demise in Srinagar jail, stating that the realization of his dream has finally come to fruition, with Indians now free from restrictions in this part of their country.

Dhankhar lauded the positive changes brought about by the abrogation of Article 370, including the application of 890 Central laws, the repeal of over 200 State laws, and the modification of numerous laws to benefit the people of Jammu and Kashmir. He also acknowledged the notable improvements in infrastructure and connectivity in the Union Territory.

Describing India as the mother of democracy and the world’s most functional democracy, the Vice President urged every Indian to take pride in the nation’s achievements. He expressed concern over the orchestrated dissemination of false narratives to undermine the country, emphasizing the need for vigilance and urging citizens not to ignore such pernicious designs.

Asserting that no one is above the law and that the long arm of justice will reach everyone, Dhankhar celebrated the closing of escape routes for the corrupt, stressing zero tolerance for corruption. He declared that accountability to the law extends to all, regardless of their identity or lineage.

Addressing the graduating students, the Vice President imparted valuable advice, urging them not to succumb to tension, stress, or fear of failure. He commended the Lt. Governor of Jammu and Kashmir for leading the Union Territory to greater heights of development.

The convocation ceremony was attended by esteemed guests, including Dr. (Smt.) Sudesh Dhankhar, spouse of the Vice-President of India, Manoj Sinha, Lieutenant Governor, UT J&K, and Chancellor, University of Jammu, Rajeev Rai Bhatnagar, Advisor to Lt. Governor, J&K Govt., and the Pro-Chancellor of the University of Jammu, Alok Kumar, Principal Secretary to Higher Education, J&K Govt., Prof. Umesh Rai, Vice-Chancellor, University of Jammu, Prof. Dinesh Singh, Vice Chairman, Higher Education Council, J&K Govt, faculty members, students, and others.