05-08-2023 : The fourth anniversary of the abrogation of Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir witnessed contrasting reactions from political parties. The BJP celebrated the occasion by organizing a public meeting in Srinagar, while its rivals, including the Congress and PDP, staged protests, terming it a “black day.”
During the public meeting at Jawahar Nagar in Srinagar, several leaders and workers of the BJP’s Jammu and Kashmir unit participated. The purpose of this program was to counter the attempts of certain leaders who are allegedly trying to provoke people in the name of Article 370. The party spokesperson, Thakur Abhijeet Jasrotia, asserted that these leaders were propagating false narratives and misleading the public. He highlighted that the common people and the underprivileged sections of society are more interested in development and progress rather than being swayed by dynastic politics or the influence of leaders like Farooq Abdullah and Mehbooba Mufti.
Throughout the meeting, BJP leaders emphasized the positive changes that have occurred in Jammu and Kashmir since the central government’s decision to revoke Article 370 in 2019. Jasrotia pointed out that previously, the region experienced frequent shutdowns in the Kashmir Valley, whereas now, there are no such disruptions. The Congress, Shiv Sena (UBT), and PDP, on the other hand, staged separate protests in Jammu to mark the day. They demanded the restoration of statehood for Jammu and Kashmir, protection of land rights, and 100 percent reservation for locals in jobs.
Congress members led by J-K chief Vikar Rasool Wani held a peaceful demonstration, criticizing the BJP government at the Centre for failing to fulfill its promises. They accused the government of misleading the public and claimed that there has been no real change or progress in the region. Similarly, Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Manish Sahni highlighted the deteriorating situation in the region, emphasizing issues like unemployment and narco-terrorism. The PDP also staged a protest at its headquarters in Jammu, expressing concern about the restrictions imposed on its leadership, including Mehbooba Mufti.
In response to PDP’s claims of detention and house arrest of its leaders, BJP spokesperson Jasrotia dismissed them as false. He asserted that no such actions were taken by the administration, and the PDP’s claims were an attempt to spread lies and misinformation. He stated that the PDP lacked public support and, therefore, would not have been able to hold a rally even if they were granted permission.
While political parties engaged in protests and celebrations, other groups, such as West Pakistani refugees, Gurkhas, and Valmiki Samaj members, expressed their joy over the fourth anniversary of the abrogation. They claimed that it facilitated their inclusion as citizens of Jammu and Kashmir after decades of waiting. These groups celebrated the newfound freedom and rights they acquired, including voting, land ownership, and access to education.