Life's changed in J&K, Ladakh since Article 370, 35(A) repeal: PM Modi

NEW DELHI: The lives of the people of Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh have witnessed wide-ranging transformation since Articles 370 and 35(A) were repealed, PM Narendra Modi said on the seventh anniversary of the decision, stating that the removal of the erstwhile state's special status marked a decisive new chapter for the region, now divided into two Union territories (UTs).Modi emphasised the special significance of the anniversary as his govt is commemorating the 125th birth anniversary of BJP's ideological inspiration Syama Prasad Mookerjee this year. Mookerjee had launched an agitation against Article 370 and died in incarceration in Jammu and Kashmir in 1953 after being arrested for entering it without the required permit."His lifelong commitment to national unity continues to inspire generations. What he envisioned decades ago found historic fulfilment on 5th Aug, 2019," PMModi said."Since then, infrastructure has expanded and opportunities in areas such as education, healthcare, entrepreneurship and sports have grown," he said. "Be it women or the marginalised communities, those who were denied their basic constitutional rights for decades have been empowered thanks to the full application of the Constitution of India," he said.Defence minister Rajnath Singh said a new era of peace, progress and equal opportunity has dawned for Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh.Get the latest India News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.