Revocation of Article 370 Best Tribute to Syama Prasad Mookerjee: PM Modi

New Delhi, July 6: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday said the abrogation of Articles 370 and 35(A) in 2019 was the most fitting tribute to the “martyrdom” of Bharatiya Jana Sangh founder Syama Prasad Mookerjee, whose vision was the complete integration of Jammu and Kashmir with the rest of India.

In a signed article published on Mookerjee’s 125th birth anniversary, the Prime Minister described him as a statesman who exemplified courage, patriotism and selfless public service. He said Mookerjee always placed “India first” and worked to strengthen national institutions while remaining deeply rooted in Indian values.

Modi said Mookerjee’s unwavering commitment to national unity led him to oppose the special constitutional status of Jammu and Kashmir. He noted that Mookerjee died in detention in Srinagar in 1953 while campaigning for the full integration of the erstwhile state with the Union of India.

Recalling the Centre’s decision to revoke Articles 370 and 35(A) on August 5, 2019, Modi said the move fulfilled Mookerjee’s long-standing vision and stood as the most appropriate tribute to his sacrifice.

The Prime Minister also highlighted Mookerjee’s contributions to education, industry and democratic values. He said Mookerjee became the youngest Vice-Chancellor of the University of Calcutta, advocated educational reforms, and later laid the foundation of the Bharatiya Jana Sangh to provide an alternative political voice rooted in India’s cultural ethos.

Modi further credited Mookerjee with helping establish key institutions, including the Damodar Valley Corporation and the Sindri Fertiliser Plant, while also promoting handlooms, cottage industries and artisan welfare. He said Mookerjee believed nation-building transcended political differences but never hesitated to resign from Jawaharlal Nehru’s Cabinet when he felt national interests required a different course.

Calling on citizens to draw inspiration from Mookerjee’s life, the Prime Minister said the best way to honour his legacy was to work towards building a strong, united, self-reliant and compassionate India. (Agencies)