Article 370 Revoked: PM Modi Says Those Who Sympathize With Terror, Opposed Revocation of 370; In Points

New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday hit out at the political leaders and parties in the valley saying that those who ruled Kashmir do not want it to democratise. He also alleged that those who sympathize with terror, opposed the revocation of Article 370. PM said this during an interview given to IANS, a week after the Centre abrogated Article 370 and divided Jammu and Kashmir into two Union territories. PM said that the leaders who have opposed the decisions of scrapping Article 370, do not want the democratisation of Jammu and Kashmir as it would hurt the vested interests of those groups and political dynasties in the valley. As the dragnet eases, life will limp back to normal in the Valley, the PM has a clear view on the issue, he reckons that these provisions actually harmed India, for a handful of families and a separatist cabal capitalised on this. Here's top key takeaways from PM's interview- • When asked about his decision on Article 370 which has been welcomed by many and also been opposed by a few, PM Modi was quoted by IANS as saying, "Please see the list of people who have opposed the decisions about Kashmir - the usual vested interest groups, political dynasties, those who sympathise with terror and some friends in the Opposition." • PM further said, "the people of India, irrespective of what their political preference, have supported the steps taken in Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh. This is about the nation, not politics. The people of India are seeing that tough but essential decisions that were earlier assumed to be impossible are becoming a reality." • PM Modi said, "It is now clear to everyone how Articles 370 and 35(A) fully isolated Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh. The status quo of seven long decades clearly could not fulfil people's aspirations. Citizens were kept away from the fruits of development." Watch | Those Who Sympathize With Terror, Opposed Revocation of 370: PM • "The greatest casualty was the lack of any proper economic avenues to increase earnings. Our approach is different -- instead of the vicious cycle of poverty, the people need more economic opportunities. For years, intimidation ruled the roost. Let us now give development a chance," PM said. • He followed up by making a fervent plea to his brethren in Kashmir. "My sisters and brothers of Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh always wanted a better future for them, but Article 370 did not enable it. There was injustice against women and children, ST as well as SC communities. And, most importantly, the innovative zeal of the people of Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh was not harnessed." • "Now, from BPOs to startups, from food processing to tourism, many industries can avail of investment and create opportunities for the local youth. Education and skill development will also bloom," PM Modi said. • PM also said, "I want to clearly assure my sisters and brothers of Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh that these regions will develop as per the wishes of local people, their dreams and ambitions. The growth of these regions will first and foremost be powered by those belonging to these regions." • "Articles 370 and 35(A) were like chains that kept people tied. These chains are now broken, people have been unshackled from such dominance and they will now shape their own destiny," PM futher tol IANS. • For those who are opposing the decisions on Jammu and Kashmir, PM believes they should answer one basic question: What is their defence for Articles 370 and 35(A) remaining? • He argued, "They would have no answer to this question. And, these are the same people who are used to protesting when it comes to anything that helps common people. There is a project to provide water to people, they will oppose it. There is a railway track being built, they will oppose that. Their heart only beats for Maoists and terrorists who have only bullied common citizens." • PM added, "Today, every Indian is fully standing with the people of Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh and I am confident they will stand with us in the aim to boost development and bring peace." • When asked about the concerns over democracy, PM said, "Kashmir has never witnessed such a strong commitment in favour of democracy. Remember the turnout during the Panchayat elections? The people voted in large numbers and did not get cowed by bullying. In November and December of 2018, there were 35,000 Sarpanches elected and the turnout in the Panchayat elections was a record 74%. There was no violence during the Panchayat elections. Not a drop of blood was shed in poll violence. This, when the main parties there were lukewarm to this entire exercise. It is very satisfying that now Panchayats are back at the forefront of furthering development and human empowerment. Imagine, for so many years those in power did not find it prudent to work towards strengthening Panchayats. And remember, they gave great sermons on democracy, but the words never led to action."