In a strong statement, former Deputy Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir and senior BJP leader, Kavinder Gupta, has once again criticized the now-abrogated Article 370, attributing it to many of the region’s long-standing problems. He stated that Article 370 had promoted terrorism, corruption, and the persistence of dynasty politics in the region for decades.

Speaking about the impact of the special status provision, Gupta remarked, “Article 370 has promoted terrorism, corruption, dynasty politics, and even stone-pelting incidents in Jammu and Kashmir. The removal of this article was essential to bring stability and development to the region.” He expressed his firm belief that the next government formed in J and K must ensure that such situations never return. “The government that will be formed in J and K should understand that this kind of situation will never come, nor will anyone let it come,” Gupta added, referring to the region’s troubled past.

Security of Jammu and Kashmir is Paramount

Gupta further emphasized that the central government would continue to prioritize the security of Jammu and Kashmir, especially given its strategic significance as a border state. He stated that the central leadership, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, is committed to ensuring that the region remains secure and free from the challenges it once faced under Article 370.

“As a border state, Jammu and Kashmir holds great significance for India’s security. The central government will ensure the security of the region. We cannot afford to let it fall back into the old days of unrest and violence,” Gupta asserted. He underscored that the abrogation of Article 370 had already laid the foundation for peace, stability, and development in the region, and it is crucial for future governments to uphold this progress.

Article 370’s Role in Fostering Instability

Since its abrogation in August 2019, Article 370 has remained a point of contention between political parties in Jammu and Kashmir and across India. Critics of Article 370, like Gupta, argue that the special status provision created an environment conducive to militancy and allowed corruption to thrive under the veil of autonomy. The provision, they say, isolated Jammu and Kashmir from the rest of India and enabled the rise of dynasty politics, which contributed to the region’s backwardness in terms of development.

In contrast, Gupta believes that the abrogation has opened new doors for growth and prosperity in Jammu and Kashmir. “Now that Article 370 is gone, there is no turning back. The people of Jammu and Kashmir deserve progress, security, and a government that works for them, not for personal gains,” he said.

Looking Ahead

As Jammu and Kashmir moves forward with new elections on the horizon, Gupta’s words highlight the BJP’s continued emphasis on national security and development in the region. The abrogation of Article 370 remains a key talking point in political discourse, with the BJP maintaining that the move was essential for integrating Jammu and Kashmir more fully into India.

Gupta’s statement is a clear message to both his political opponents and the people of Jammu and Kashmir. The central government’s focus on security and development is expected to remain at the forefront of the region’s political landscape as it approaches a new era in governance.