"Strengthened the spirit of ek bharat, shreshtha bharat": PM Modi writes on Article 370 verdict

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• Dec 12, 2023 | Dhupali Das

Prime Minister Narendra Modi lauded the verdict, stating that it has "strengthened the spirit of Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat...

Digital Desk: A day after the Supreme Court upheld the central government's decision to revoke the special status of Jammu and Kashmir and bifurcate it into union territories by abrogating Article 370 of the Constitution, Prime Minister Narendra Modi lauded the verdict, stating that it has "strengthened the spirit of Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat."

In an article penned after the historic decision, PM Modi expressed his views on the judgment, emphasizing that the Supreme Court's decision reinforced the bonds of unity and a shared commitment to good governance. The five-judge Constitution Bench, led by Chief Justice DY Chandrachud, declared the validity of the President's 2019 order to revoke the special status of Jammu and Kashmir.

The court underscored that not every move by the central government can be subjected to challenge, asserting that it cannot rule on the validity of the government order while reiterating that Jammu and Kashmir remains an integral part of India.

PM Modi highlighted the court's assertion that the decision on August 5, 2019, aimed at enhancing constitutional integration, not disintegration. He wrote, "Through its judgment, the court has upheld the sovereignty and integrity of India, something that is cherished by every Indian."

Expressing regret over the historical approach towards Jammu and Kashmir, PM Modi stated, "Sadly, Jammu and Kashmir became a big victim of such a mindset. At the time of Independence, we had a choice of making a fresh start for national integration. Instead, we decided to continue with the confused-society approach even if it meant ignoring the long-term national interests."

The Prime Minister firmly believed that the events in Jammu and Kashmir were a great betrayal to the nation and its people. He claimed that the region's atmosphere had changed positively since 2019, with development, democracy, and dignity replacing disillusionment, disappointment, and despondency.

In conclusion, PM Modi expressed optimism about the future, stating that the dreams of the people in the northernmost part of India were no longer prisoners of the past but possibilities for the future. The Supreme Court's verdict, according to the Prime Minister, marks a significant step towards a united and prosperous India.