On August 5, 2023, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced that since the 2019 abrogation of Article 370, Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh have undergone significant transformations. These changes include considerable advancements in infrastructure, education, healthcare, entrepreneurship, and sports.
Modi’s remarks came as he commemorated the seventh anniversary of the abrogation, pointing out the Centre’s dedication to the development of these Union Territories. He stated that the government aims to ensure every citizen has opportunities to “dream big, achieve, and contribute” to a developed India, or Viksit Bharat.
“We have witnessed a significant expansion in infrastructure and a rise in opportunities across various sectors,” Modi said, emphasizing that the power of the Constitution has empowered women and marginalized communities who had been denied their basic rights for decades.
Taking to X, the Prime Minister noted, “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 and Ladakh.”
On August 5, 2019, the BJP-led government abrogated Article 370, which previously granted special status to Jammu and Kashmir, and subsequently bifurcated the state into two Union Territories: Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh.
Modi reiterated the government’s commitment: “We reaffirm our dedication to the progress of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh. We strive to provide every citizen the opportunity to dream big and contribute to Viksit Bharat.”
This year, the anniversary of the abrogation holds additional significance as it aligns with the 125th birth anniversary of Syama Prasad Mookerjee. Mookerjee, founder of the Bharatiya Jana Sangh, advocated for the complete integration of Jammu and Kashmir into India by scrapping Article 370. He passed away under detention in Srinagar in 1953.
His vision for national unity continues to inspire India’s development pathway. As Modi noted, “What he envisioned decades ago found historic fulfillment on 5th August 2019.” The ongoing efforts in Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh reflect a commitment to making markable strides toward a united and progressive India.
