NEW DELHI – The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has issued a categorical rejection of Hurriyat Conference chairman Mirwaiz Umar Farooq’s recent call for the restoration of Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir (J&K). Senior BJP leader Kavinder Gupta stated firmly that there is "no question" of reinstating the constitutional provisions that granted special status to the region, which were abrogated in August 2019.

The BJP's strong rebuke came in response to remarks made by Mirwaiz Umar Farooq following his release from over four years of house detention. On Sunday, October 1, 2023, during a sermon at Srinagar's historic Jamia Masjid, Mirwaiz articulated a desire for the return of J&K's special constitutional position, referring to August 5, 2019, the date of abrogation, as a "black day." His comments marked a significant re-entry into the public political discourse of the Union Territory.

Gupta, a former Deputy Chief Minister of J&K, emphasized the central government's unwavering stance, asserting that Article 370's abrogation had ushered in an era of peace, development, and prosperity in the region. He contended that the previous special status had fostered separatism and hindered progress, claims often echoed by the ruling party.

Key points highlighted by BJP leaders regarding the post-abrogation scenario include:

  • Enhanced Integration: Full constitutional integration of Jammu and Kashmir with the rest of India.
  • Economic Development: Increased investment, infrastructure projects, and a surge in tourism, contributing to local economies.
  • Empowerment of Marginalized Communities: Implementation of central laws providing rights and reservations to communities previously disenfranchised under Article 370, such as Valmikis, Gorkhas, and West Pakistani Refugees.
  • Improved Security Landscape: A perceived reduction in terrorism-related incidents and an intensified focus on counter-insurgency operations.
  • Democratic Reforms: Successful conduct of local body elections and efforts towards strengthening grassroots democracy.

Article 370 of the Constitution of India had provided special autonomous status to the state of Jammu and Kashmir. Its provisions, along with Article 35A, were revoked by the Indian government on August 5, 2019, through a presidential order, followed by a resolution passed in both houses of Parliament. The government subsequently reorganized the state into two Union Territories: Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh. This move was framed by the BJP as essential for national security, development, and ensuring equal rights for all citizens within the region.

Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, a prominent religious and political figure, serves as the chairman of the moderate faction of the All Parties Hurriyat Conference, an amalgam of separatist groups in J&K. His release and subsequent public address have drawn attention to the persistent political aspirations among certain sections of the Kashmiri populace, despite the government's resolute policy.

The firm stance from the BJP underscores the government's consistent position that the decision to abrogate Article 370 is irreversible. While Mirwaiz's return to public life may re-ignite political debates concerning J&K's future, the central government remains committed to its narrative of development and full integration, signaling that fundamental constitutional changes affecting the region are not under consideration. The political landscape of Jammu and Kashmir continues to be defined by these contrasting viewpoints as the region moves forward under its new administrative framework.