Prime Minister Narendra Modi on August 5 welcomed the seven-year mark since the abrogation of Articles 370 and 35A, heralding a “decisive new chapter” for Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh. Modi emphasized this constitutional shift has vastly transformed these regions through development and social progress.
In a post on platform X, Modi stated, “Seven years ago, on this day, Articles 370 and 35(A) became history, marking a decisive new chapter in the journey of Jammu and Kashmir as well as Ladakh.” This significant change took place on August 5, 2019, when the Centre revoked Jammu and Kashmir’s special constitutional status and reorganized the state into two Union Territories: Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh.
Modi praised the expansion of infrastructure and the surge in educational, healthcare, entrepreneurial, and sports opportunities following the abrogation. He noted that women and marginalized communities now enjoy rights that had been historically denied to them, leading to their empowerment through the full application of the Constitution of India.
“Be it women or marginalized communities, those who were denied their basic constitutional rights for decades have been empowered,” he stressed, illustrating the profound societal shift since the revocation.
The seventh anniversary gained added significance as it coincided with the 125th birth anniversary year of nationalist leader Dr. Syama Prasad Mookerjee, whose commitment to national unity, Modi believes, has inspired generations. He stated that Mookerjee’s vision found a “historic fulfilment” on August 5, 2019.
Modi reaffirmed the Centre’s dedication to the ongoing development of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh. He declared, “We reaffirm our commitment to the progress of Jammu and Kashmir as well as Ladakh and to ensure that every citizen has the opportunity to dream big, achieve and contribute to the making of a Viksit Bharat.”
The government also spotlighted initiatives recognizing Srinagar’s crafts and rich heritage. The revival of local festivals and cultural activities, along with a boost in pilgrimage tourism, contributes to the region’s renaissance.
Srinagar’s designation as a UNESCO Creative City and World Craft City showcases Kashmir’s traditional craftsmanship on the world stage, reflecting its cultural renaissance.
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath lauded the August 5 decision as a pivotal moment—calling it a “golden day” in India’s quest for unity, integrity, and sovereignty. He remarked that Jammu and Kashmir has seen a historic transition over the past seven years, emerging as a symbol of the aspirations and developmental spirit of “New India.”
