Jammu (Jammu and Kashmir) [India], October 31 : Union Minister Jitendra Singh stated on Thursday that even though Muslims in Srinagar "may not openly say so," they are inwardly pleased with the abrogation of Article 370.
Addressing a gathering, Singh stressed that Kashmir is no longer complete without the presence of Kashmiri Pandits.
"On the occasion of Deepavali, we are celebrating not only the festival but also the progress in education, science, and the rich legacy of the Kashmiri Pandit community. We are honouring the heritage that this community has preserved over decades... Kashmir is incomplete without the presence of Kashmiri Pandits," he remarked.
"Today, even the common man walking through the streets of Srinagar, be he Muslim, may not voice it, but deep down, he feels relief with the abrogation of Article 370. He has seen three generations of his community sacrificed for the so-called Azadi and does not want to miss the opportunities now emerging as India has become a thriving destination for startups and economic avenues," Singh added.
Earlier, Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted that the people of Jammu and Kashmir have rejected separatism and terrorism, thereby upholding India's Constitution and democracy.
While addressing the National Unity Day parade in Kevadia, Gujarat, PM Modi remarked, "The people of Jammu and Kashmir have rejected the long-standing agenda of separatism and terrorism. They have endorsed India's Constitution and democracy. With their votes, they have ended the 70-year-old propaganda. Today, on National Unity Day, I salute the people of Jammu and Kashmir."
He further stated that terrorist leaders now realise that targeting India will be futile, as India will not tolerate any harm.
"In the past decade, India has resolved numerous issues that posed a threat to national unity. Terrorist leaders now understand that attempts to harm India will lead nowhere, as India will retaliate firmly," he asserted.