New Delhi, August 5, 2026 : Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Wednesday said the abrogation of Articles 370 and 35(A) has ushered in a “new era of peace, progress and equal opportunity” for the people of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh, describing the historic decision as a milestone in India’s journey towards national integration and development.
Marking seven years since the constitutional changes of August 5, 2019, Singh stated that the decision fulfilled the long-standing vision of Dr. Syama Prasad Mookerjee and reaffirmed the nation’s commitment to building a prosperous Jammu & Kashmir, a thriving Ladakh, and a Viksit Bharat.
In a post on X, the Defence Minister wrote:
“Seven years since the abrogation of Articles 370 and 35(A), a new era of peace, progress and equal opportunity has dawned for Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh.”
He further linked the occasion with the 125th birth anniversary of Dr. Syama Prasad Mookerjee, paying tribute to his unwavering dedication to India’s unity and integrity.
“As we also commemorate the 125th birth anniversary of Dr. Syama Prasad Mookerjee, we salute his unwavering commitment to India’s unity, a vision that found historic fulfilment on 5th August 2019. United in purpose and steadfast in resolve, India remains committed to building a prosperous Jammu & Kashmir, a thriving Ladakh and a Viksit Bharat,” Singh said.
The abrogation of Article 370 and Article 35(A) on August 5, 2019, ended the erstwhile special constitutional status of Jammu & Kashmir and led to the reorganization of the former state into the Union Territories of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh.
The anniversary continues to draw strong political reactions across the country, with the Centre maintaining that the move has accelerated development, strengthened governance, improved infrastructure, and expanded opportunities for the people of the region.
