Article 370 Was a Tool for Separatism; Its Removal Transformed Kashmir: Amit Shah
Amit Shah: Article 370 Removal Ended Terrorist Glorification, Strengthened Kashmir’s Integration
Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Friday said that the abrogation of Article 370 has significantly reduced the involvement of Indian youth in terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir.
Speaking in the Rajya Sabha during a discussion on the Ministry of Home Affairs, Shah asserted that terrorist glorification, once common under previous governments, has now ended under the NDA’s decade-long rule.
“Ten years ago, terrorist funerals were attended by large crowds, and they were glorified. But today, when terrorists are eliminated, they are buried on the spot without any public display. Moreover, their relatives who previously enjoyed government perks have been removed from public positions to send a strong message,” Shah stated.
He credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the historic step taken on August 5, 2019, to revoke Article 370, calling it a move that fully integrated Jammu and Kashmir with the rest of India. Shah also criticized past governments for safeguarding Article 370 due to vote bank politics, despite its temporary provision in the Constitution.
Highlighting India’s counter-terrorism stance, Shah recalled that terrorist infiltrations and attacks were once common, with bombings disrupting festivals and daily life in Kashmir. However, under PM Modi’s leadership, a “zero-tolerance policy” against terrorism was implemented.
“There were attacks in Uri and Pulwama, but within 10 days, India responded with airstrikes and surgical strikes in Pakistan. The removal of Article 370 was the foundation of ending separatism in Kashmir and ensuring long-term peace,” he added.
Shah reiterated that the Modi government remains committed to eliminating terrorism and strengthening national security.
