In a bold and definitive statement, Union Home Minister Amit Shah declared that Article 370 is now a part of history and will never return. This announcement was made during the launch of the Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) manifesto for the upcoming Jammu and Kashmir Assembly elections. Shah’s assertion underscores the BJP’s commitment to maintaining the abrogation of Article 370, which previously granted special autonomy to the region.
A Historic Declaration
Addressing a gathering of party supporters and media personnel, Amit Shah emphasized that the abrogation of Article 370 has brought about a new era of peace and development in Jammu and Kashmir. “Article 370 is now history and will never come back,” Shah stated unequivocally. He highlighted the significant reduction in terror-related incidents and stone-pelting activities over the past decade, attributing this positive change to the BJP’s governance.
Shah’s declaration comes at a crucial time as Jammu and Kashmir prepares for its first Assembly elections since the region’s reorganization in 2019. The elections, scheduled to be held in three phases on September 18, September 25, and October 1, will be a litmus test for the BJP’s policies and their impact on the region.
The BJP’s Vision for Jammu and Kashmir
The BJP’s manifesto for the Jammu and Kashmir elections outlines a comprehensive plan for the region’s development. Shah emphasized the party’s commitment to eradicating terrorism and ensuring good governance. “The last 10 years saw the golden era of Jammu and Kashmir,” Shah remarked, highlighting the progress made under the BJP’s rule.
The manifesto promises to continue the development initiatives that have been implemented over the past decade. Key areas of focus include infrastructure development, education, healthcare, and employment opportunities. Shah urged the people of Jammu and Kashmir to support the BJP for continued progress and stability in the region.
A Decade of Transformation
Since the abrogation of Article 370 in August 2019, Jammu and Kashmir has undergone significant changes. The region was reorganized into two Union Territories—Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh. This move was aimed at integrating the region more closely with the rest of India and ensuring uniform development.
Shah highlighted the positive outcomes of this reorganization, noting the decrease in violence and the increase in developmental activities. “This Article has only given arms and stones in the hands of the youth and facilitated them to tread the path of terrorism,” Shah said, emphasizing the need to move forward and focus on development.
Political Reactions
Shah’s statement has elicited strong reactions from various political quarters. The National Conference, a major political party in Jammu and Kashmir, has been vocal in its opposition to the abrogation of Article 370. Omar Abdullah, a prominent leader of the National Conference, has repeatedly called for the restoration of the special status of Jammu and Kashmir.
In response to these demands, Shah firmly stated, “I have gone through the National Conference agenda. I want to make it clear to the whole country that Article 370 has become history and will never make a comeback”. He also assured that the reservation granted to Gujjars, Bakerwals, and Pahadis would remain intact, countering concerns raised by the National Conference.
The Road Ahead
As Jammu and Kashmir heads towards the Assembly elections, the BJP’s stance on Article 370 is expected to be a central theme of their campaign. Shah’s declaration reinforces the party’s commitment to maintaining the changes brought about by the abrogation and focusing on the region’s development.
The upcoming elections will be a critical test for the BJP’s policies and their impact on the ground. The party’s ability to deliver on its promises and address the concerns of the people will be closely watched. Shah’s call for a five-year tenure to ensure the region’s development underscores the BJP’s confidence in its governance model.
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Nikhil Malhotra 
