Ramdas Athawale: Article 370's Abrogation Boosted J&K's Growth
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Synopsis
Union Minister Ramdas Athawale asserts that the abrogation of Article 370 has fortified development and reduced terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir, sparking increased tourism and a call for statehood restoration.
Key Takeaways
- Article 370 abrogation has boosted J&K's development.
- Over 2.5 million tourists visited J&K last year.
- J&K's statehood will be reinstated soon.
- High voter turnout is a positive sign for democracy in J&K.
- Society must unite to combat rising crime rates.
Jammu, Feb 27 (NationPress) Union Minister of State for Social Justice & Empowerment, Ramdas Athawale stated on Thursday that the abrogation of Article 370 has significantly enhanced development and curtailed terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir.
The minister is currently visiting to evaluate the progress of centrally sponsored initiatives aimed at advancing the development of J&K.
During a press conference, he remarked: “There was a time when tourists hesitated to visit Jammu and Kashmir, but that has shifted dramatically following the revocation of Article 370. The government, led by PM Narendra Modi, has made numerous key decisions, and the abrogation of Article 370 stands as a monumental step that has fostered development in J&K, eradicated terrorism, created job opportunities, and established peace while enabling the tricolour to be proudly displayed.”
He emphasized that previously, people were apprehensive about traveling to J&K, but this has transformed since the revocation of Article 370, with over 2.5 million tourists visiting the union territory last year.
“The surge in tourism translates to increased development for the region. The decision to annul Article 370 was undoubtedly wise. Now, the populace desires that we restore J&K's status as a state,” he articulated.
He further mentioned that when Home Minister Amit Shah declared the removal of Article 370, he also assured that J&K's statehood would be reinstated at an appropriate moment.
“Jammu and Kashmir will soon regain its status as a state, and all of the people's issues will be addressed,” he asserted.
Athawale praised the record voter turnout in Jammu and Kashmir during last year’s Assembly elections.
“Although the NC and Congress alliance assumed power, it matters little to us as we stand with the people and aim for the region's growth,” he remarked.
In response to the recent incident involving the assault of a 26-year-old woman on a bus at the bustling Swargate depot in Pune, Athawale expressed that such events are both condemnable and devastating.
“We demand that the individuals responsible for these acts be hanged. Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has already instructed the police to expedite the investigation and ensure the perpetrator faces justice,” he stated.
He highlighted the necessity for society to unite against the rising frequency of such incidents.
“Those involved in these acts should be ostracized, especially as we witness atrocities being committed against even young children. It is crucial for parents and families to guarantee that their children receive quality education,” he added.
Regarding the resistance to the imposition of Hindi in Tamil Nadu, Athawale suggested that the introduction of Hindi in the southern state should not face opposition, as it could undermine the unity and integrity of the nation.
“Hindi is spoken by nearly 90 to 100 crore individuals, while state languages are confined to specific regions. Therefore, there is no detriment in implementing Hindi anywhere,” he concluded.
