In a special broadcast of ‘Mann Ki Baat’, Prime Minister Narendra Modi revealed Central Government’s plan to develop Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh. This comes two days after Indian Parliament passed a resolution abrogating Article 370 and 35A which gave special status to ‘Permanent resident’ of J&K.
With a common phrase “Mere pyaare desh wasiyon”, Modi started addressing the nation sharp at 8 pm. He said that revoking Article 370 and 35A of the Constitution was a historic decision that has fulfilled the dreams of patriots like Sardar Patel, Dr. Ambedkar and many more. He further added that 1.5 crore Kashmiris who were deprived of benefits due to special status will no longer be left behind.
He also pointed towards lack of equality in the state before repealing the article. He said that unlike rest of the nation, daughters were not given equal rights, sanitation workers were not given equal rights and there was no reservation for SC/ST in Jammu and Kashmir. He also said that schemes of the central government were not extended to the region. “Surprisingly, if we talk to anyone, no one could even tell what the benefit of Article 370 in the lives of the people of Jammu and Kashmir was,” he added.
He assured the people of Kashmir that they will continue to choose their leader in coming legislature election but new paradigm change will improve the situation. He also expressed confidence that closer cooperation with the Centre will help put an end to terrorism and separatism in the region.
Prime Minister made some major announcements for the newly announced Union Territories. He said that all government employees in Jammu and Kashmir will get the same benefits as government employees in the other union territories get and all the financial post will be filled soon. He further said that Public Sector Units (PSUs) and bigger private companies will also be encouraged to provide jobs in the two newly formed union territories.
