Nitin Nabin Says Abrogation of Articles 370, 35A Brought ‘Real Freedom’ to J&K

JAMMU, JULY 7 : BJP national president Nitin Nabin on Monday said the people of Jammu and Kashmir experienced “real freedom” after the Narendra Modi-led Government abrogated Articles 370 and 35A on August 5, 2019, describing the move as the fulfilment of Bharatiya Jana Sangh founder Dr Syama Prasad Mookerjee’s dream of complete integration of the erstwhile State with India. Politics Addressing a party Sammelan at Mishriwala near Jammu to mark the conclusion of the nationwide fortnight-long observance of Dr Mookerjee’s birth anniversary, Nabin paid tribute to the Jana Sangh founder, calling him the architect of the vision of “Ek Nishan, Ek Vidhan and Ek Pradhan” and an inspiration for lakhs of BJP workers. He said the abrogation of the special constitutional provisions ended decades of discrimination and opened the path for peace, development and equal rights in Jammu and Kashmir. Claiming that the region has witnessed significant transformation over the past few years, Nabin said separatism, stone-pelting and frequent shutdowns have become things of the past, while the Tricolour now flies proudly across the Union Territory, including at Srinagar’s Lal Chowk. The BJP chief credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi for ensuring security, infrastructure development and welfare measures in Jammu and Kashmir. He said roads, airports and other public infrastructure are being upgraded while corruption is being curbed and employment opportunities are expanding. Launching a sharp attack on the Congress, Nabin accused the party of pursuing divisive politics and supporting anti-national elements. He also criticised the Omar Abdullah-led Government, alleging discrimination against the Jammu region while asserting that the BJP remains committed to the welfare and development of every section of society. Referring to Operation Sindoor, he said it demonstrated the Government’s resolve to safeguard national security and give a strong response to Pakistan-sponsored terrorism. Calling upon party workers to intensify grassroots outreach, Nabin urged them to spread awareness about Central Government welfare schemes and strengthen the BJP’s organisational base across Jammu and Kashmir. Politics Earlier, Nabin chaired meetings with party office-bearers and senior leaders at the BJP headquarters in Jammu to review the political situation and discuss future organisational strategy. He also visited the historic Raghunath Temple and offered prayers during his visit. Several senior BJP leaders, including Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh, national general secretary Tarun Chugh, J&K BJP president Sat Sharma, Leader of Opposition Sunil Sharma, MPs Jugal Kishore Sharma and Ghulam Ali Khatana, and other party functionaries attended the programme.