Jammu, February 27 – Union Minister Ramdas Athawale has hailed the Centre’s decision to revoke Article 370, stating that it has strengthened development, ended terrorism, and boosted employment opportunities in Jammu and Kashmir. Addressing a press conference in Jammu, the Minister of State for Social Justice and Empowerment emphasized that the region has witnessed significant transformation since the abrogation in August 2019.
Athawale highlighted that earlier, tourists were hesitant to visit Jammu and Kashmir due to security concerns. However, the situation has changed remarkably post-Article 370 revocation, with over 2.5 million tourists visiting the Union Territory last year. He asserted that increased tourism has spurred regional development and enhanced economic opportunities for the local population.
"The Narendra Modi-led government has taken several landmark decisions, and the abrogation of Article 370 was a crucial step that ensured peace, economic growth, and national integration. The move has created new job opportunities and allowed the unfurling of the tricolor without fear," Athawale remarked.
The Union Minister also addressed the demand for restoring Jammu and Kashmir’s statehood, affirming that it will be reinstated at an appropriate time. "When Home Minister Amit Shah announced the abrogation of Article 370, he assured that statehood would be restored in due course. This will happen soon, and all people's concerns will be addressed," he stated.
Athawale further praised the record voter turnout in the region’s assembly elections held last year, stating that the participation reflected the people's trust in democracy. While acknowledging the victory of the National Conference-Congress alliance, he said the focus remains on development and public welfare.
Strong Condemnation of Pune Rape Incident
Speaking on the recent rape of a 26-year-old woman at Pune's Swargate depot, Athawale condemned the incident, calling it heart-wrenching and unacceptable. He demanded strict action, including capital punishment for the perpetrators."Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has directed the police to expedite the investigation and bring the accused to justice. Society must take responsibility and collectively work to prevent such heinous crimes," he urged families to ensure proper education and values for children.
On Hindi Language Controversy in Tamil Nadu
Addressing opposition to introducing Hindi in Tamil Nadu, Athawale insisted that resistance to the language is detrimental to national unity. "Hindi is spoken by nearly 90 to 100 crore people across India. While regional languages hold cultural significance, Hindi serves as a common thread binding the nation," he asserted.During his visit, Athawale also reviewed the implementation of centrally sponsored schemes for developing Jammu and Kashmir. Expressing satisfaction, he lauded the progress made under various government initiatives aimed at social welfare and economic growth.
The minister reaffirmed the Centre’s commitment to the region’s progress, emphasizing that the government will continue strengthening peace, prosperity, and integration in Jammu and Kashmir.
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