New Delhi, Jun 20: Union Minister for Science and Technology Jitendra Singh on Saturday said that the abrogation of Article 370 has brought about a significant change in the mindset of people in Jammu and Kashmir, leading to what he described as an “aspirational surge,” particularly among the youth.
In an interview with a news agency, Singh said that young people from smaller towns in Jammu and Kashmir are now excelling in competitive examinations and achieving academic success, reflecting a growing sense of confidence and opportunity.
He stated that the removal of Article 370 fostered a stronger feeling of belonging among the people of the region, who now see themselves as equal citizens of India. According to the Minister, the constitutional change has encouraged greater aspirations and opened new avenues for growth.
Singh also highlighted that several provisions, including equal property rights for women and voting rights for certain long-term residents, came into effect after the abrogation of Article 370. He said these changes have strengthened the principles of equality and inclusion in the Union Territory.
The BJP-led Central Government revoked Article 370 in August 2019, ending Jammu and Kashmir’s special status and reorganising the erstwhile state into the Union Territories of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh.
Speaking on Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK), the Union Minister reiterated the government’s position that the region is an integral part of India. Referring to the 1994 unanimous parliamentary resolution on Jammu and Kashmir, he said the only unresolved issue between India and Pakistan is the reintegration of PoJK into India.
Singh further alleged that residents of PoJK have been treated as “second-class citizens” by Pakistan and expressed confidence that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has the leadership and resolve to address the issue.
