NC, Congress used Article 370 for own benefit, alleges Jitendra Singh

Jammu, September 2

Union Minister Jitendra Singh on Monday accused the Congress and National Conference for using Article 370 for their “own political gains”, saying how those clamouring for its restoration once avoided public appearances in Srinagar but now “enjoy” leisure at Lal Chowk.

Speaking at a press conference in Jammu, Singh said, “Congress brought 73rd and 74th Amendments, which were implemented everywhere in the country but not in J&K. After revocation of Article 370 by PM Narendra Modi led government, these amendments are now implemented in J&K.” He said now funds for various development works are transferred directly to the local bodies and panchayats.

The Minister said that that PM Modi and his government are working hard on a vision to ensure that J&K plays an important and decisive role in the fast-developing new India. “Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his government are dedicated to ensuring J&K assumes a pivotal role in India's growth story. They are working hard on this vision,” Singh said.

Singh highlighted that J&K, post-370 abrogation, has witnessed significant tourism influx and stressed that the upcoming Assembly elections mark a pivotal shift towards a five-year term, enabled by the Article's abrogation.

Singh also criticised the past governments for allegedly stalling critical projects, citing initiatives like the Shahpur-Kandi and Rattle projects that “gained momentum” under PM Modi's leadership, alongside new power projects in Kishtwar.

“A powerful BJP government, both at Centre and in J&K, is required to take J&K forward and ensure that it plays a major and decisive role in the fast-developing India as also in 2047 when we would be celebrating 100 years of our Independence,” Singh said.

Singh outlined the BJP’s approach as rooted in three pillars—democratic processes, fostering development in underdeveloped sectors, and promoting self-governance for effective governance.

The Union minister advocated for a BJP-led government in J&K to realise Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s commitment to integrating the Union Territory into India's growth story. “We are steadfast in our mission to establish BJP government in J&K, with a vision centred on transparent governance, development, and maximising natural resources.”