Vice President of India, Jagdeep Dhankhar Thursday said that Jammu & Kashmir is charting a new path of remarkable growth and development post-abrogation of Articles 35-A and 370.
Addressing the Special Convocation Ceremony of the University of Jammu, at General Zorawar Singh Auditorium the Vice President said the region’s integration into the national mainstream has paved the way for investments, development, and improved governance.
“Now we have a harmonious atmosphere in the J&K region that was never there earlier. This is the greatest homage to Dr Shyama Prasad Mookerjee, who laid down his life for building a strong, united India. Though belatedly, we have realized his dream”, Jagdeep Dhankhar said.
“Personally, for the last 20 years, I have been advocating the abrogation of Articles 35A & 370. These were temporary provisions in our Constitution but lasted for 70 years. We are happy it’s not there now. The path of remarkable growth & development trajectory that J&K has charted following the abrogation of Articles 370 & 35-A is a testament to the vision of Dr Shyama Prasad Mookerjee, who gave his life for it”, the Vice President added.
Expressing his concern the Vice President said, “It is a cause of concern that some of us try to taint, tarnish, demean, and decry our institutions. We are the world’s most functional democracy. In every part of the world, you will find Indian genius spearheading the corporate and institutions, making India proud and other countries respecting our talent. It is ironic that false narratives are set afloat in an orchestrated manner by forces that are inimical to this country”.
He said, “No one is above the law. Stakeholders in corruption may get all their forces together to find an escape route, but the good thing is that all their escape routes have now been blocked. The message is now loud and clear. You may be anyone, with any identity or any lineage, but you are accountable to the law. Some of us do not take this seriously. I appeal to all of you to not take it lightly. If a silent majority decides to remain silent, it will be silenced forever”.
The Vice President also announced a Memorandum of Understanding between the Indian Council of World Affairs and the University of Jammu. This, he said, will facilitate greater exposure to the University in domains of culture, education and foreign affairs at a global level.
Stating that the convocation ceremony holds a significant essence in one’s life, the Vice President advised the students to never be under tension or stress and never be afraid of failure. He praised the Lt Governor of J&K for steering the UT to newer heights of development.