In a significant address marking the 125th birth anniversary of Dr. Syama Prasad Mookerjee, BJP National President Nitin Nabin highlighted the transformative changes in Jammu and Kashmir following the abrogation of Articles 370 and 35A in 2019. Nabin emphasized that these constitutional amendments have granted the region "real freedom," aligning with Mookerjee's vision for the complete integration of Jammu and Kashmir with the rest of India.
Addressing party workers in Jammu, Nabin recalled the challenges faced by BJP activists in the past, particularly the difficulties in hoisting the national flag at Lal Chowk in Srinagar. He recounted instances where curfews were imposed to prevent the Tricolour from being displayed, and party workers had to clandestinely transport the flag hidden inside bundles of newspapers. "That was the period when the Congress was in power at the Centre. We saw the Pakistani flag flying there, while the government in New Delhi remained silent," Nabin remarked.
Nabin asserted that the Modi government's decision to abrogate Articles 370 and 35A fulfilled Mookerjee's long-standing dream of complete integration of Jammu and Kashmir with the rest of the country. He stated, "When Prime Minister Narendra Modi abrogated Article 370 and Article 35A in 2019, I believe the people of Jammu and Kashmir received real freedom. The dream envisioned by Dr. Syama Prasad Mookerjee was fulfilled by Prime Minister Narendra Modi."
Reflecting on the region's progress, Nabin highlighted the transformation of Jammu and Kashmir's youth. He noted that individuals once associated with stone-pelting are now earning recognition through achievements in sports, such as the region's maiden Ranji Trophy title in the 2025–26 season. "Had the BJP not been in power at the Centre, J&K youth would still have been known as stone-pelters rather than as Ranji Trophy champions," he remarked.
Nabin also addressed the development strides in Jammu and Kashmir under the Modi government. He stated that the region is emerging as a leading area on the path of development, drawing parallels with the progress seen in northeastern states. He emphasized the Centre's commitment to ensuring that development reaches every individual, asserting that the transformation in Jammu and Kashmir mirrors the development taking place in other parts of the country.
In his address, Nabin reiterated the BJP's stance on Jammu and Kashmir, declaring it an integral part of India and ruling out any restoration of the pre-2019 constitutional arrangement. He emphasized the party's commitment to the security, development, and preservation of the region's heritage. Nabin also highlighted the revival of tourism in the valley, attributing it to the improved security situation, which has generated employment opportunities and strengthened the local economy.
The BJP chief concluded his address by urging party workers to intensify their efforts, emphasizing the party's vision of building a "Developed India" by 2047. He called for continued work towards the goals of 'Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat', Antyoday, and good governance, with a focus on inclusive progress and national unity.
This address underscores the BJP's perspective on the abrogation of Articles 370 and 35A, highlighting the party's narrative of empowerment, development, and national integration for Jammu and Kashmir.