Asks people to counter false narratives tarnishing country’s image
Nishikant Khajuria
JAMMU, June 22: Eulogizing the achievements and actions of the Modi Government, including abrogation of Articles 370 and 35-A, Vice-President of India, Jagdeep Dhankhar today took exception over alleged orchestrated efforts by certain forces aiming to spread false narrative that are detrimental to the country.
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“Jammu and Kashmir is charting new path of remarkable growth post abrogation of Articles 370 and 35-A, which were put in the Constitution of India as temporary provisions but lasted for 70 years,” he said while addressing Special Convocation Ceremony of the University of Jammu, here today, in the presence of Lt Governor Manoj Sinha and others.
The Vice-President reminded that Dr B R Ambedkar, who had drafted other Articles of the Constitution, had refused to draft Article 370. “Personally for twenty years, I too had been advocating the abrogation of Articles 35A and 370. It was an aberration… We are happy that now it is not there,” he added.
Stating that Jammu and Kashmir, unlike before, now has the prevalence of harmonious atmosphere, Jagdeep Dhankhar called abrogation of Article 370 as the greatest homage to the life and mission of Dr Shyama Prasad Mookerjee, who laid down his life for building a strong and united India.
“ Tomorrow on June 23 is his (Shyama Prasad Mookerjee) martyrdom day. He died as detenue in the Srinagar jail on this day. It was a momentous tragedy. Even though belatedly, we have realized his dream and Indians now do not face any restrictions in this part of their country,” he said and maintained that the region’s integration into the national mainstream has paved the way for investments, development and improved governance.
Referring to the changes since abrogation of Art 370, the Vice-President said that 890 Central laws have been extended to J&K and over 200 State laws have been repealed while hundreds of laws have been modified to the benefit of the people here. He also praised the improvement in infrastructure & connectivity in the Union Territory.
Lauding the works done by Lt Governor Manoj Sinha, particularly the successful conduct of G20 meeting in Srinagar, the Vice-President said that the J&K’s integration with the Union has paved the way for investments and a boon for tourism. Pointing out that the J&K has all the top institutions of the country now, including IIM, IIT and even an AIIMS, he said Jammu will be an education hub.
The Vice-President also drew attention towards the remarkable achievements of the country in the recent past and said that no one had dreamt of India becoming 5th largest economy in the world and surpass even United Kingdom.
“Our digital transfer is highest and the country has 70 crore internet user, much more than United States and China. Go by facts which never lie,” he said and asked people to take pride in India’s historical achievements and accomplishments.
Without naming anyone, the Vice-President alleged that some elements were trying to tarnish image of the country and its institutions by spreading false narratives. “It is ironic that false narratives are set afloat in orchestrated manner to belittle this country by some elements, though their number is small. Some of us do not take this seriously. If a silent majority decides to remain silent it will be silence forever,” he said and appealed people not to allow anyone to run down growth trajectory of the country.
In an apparent reference to Rahul Gandhi’s allegation of choking democracy in India by the incumbent Government, the Vice-President said that we have most functional democracy right from village level with incredible policy system. It is cause of concern and worry when some of us , a small category of people, try to tarnish , demean and decry our institutions. How can we ignore this?” he said.
Raising concern over those who protest against being summoned by law enforcing agencies., Mr Dhankhar emphasized that no one is above the law & the long arm of law will reach everyone. He said a clear message has been given in the last few years that the law applies to everyone, regardless of their status or background.
“Some people in the country have taken to themselves that they are above law. If someone is summoned by a regulatory agency, how you can take to the streets?” he said and reiterated that there is zero tolerance to corruption and everyone will be accountable to law.
Stating that the convocation ceremony holds a significant essence in one’s life, the Vice-President advised the students to never be under stress or afraid of failure.
He appreciated Jammu University for promoting Dogri and local languages. “We have to nurture the local language and culture making them functional,” he stressed. The Vice-President announced that Indian Council of World Affairs will ink a Memorandum of Understanding with Jammu University in the month of July that will facilitate greater exposure to the university in domains of culture, education and foreign affairs at a global level.
VP showers praise on LG
Showering huge praise on Lt Governor Manoj Sinha, Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar today said that he has turned a follower of the former because of his good works and qualities.
“I was Manoj Sinha’s admirer, but today I became his follower. He has qualities that help the society to grow. He is an example for the country,” said Dhankhar while delivering his Convocation address at Jammu University today.
The Vice-President said that even before he became Governor of West Bengal, he had virtual connect with Sinha, but met the latter personally only today and came to know about his talent, sagacity and well correctness.
“The kind of seamless connect he has with the Vice-Chancellors and Council of Education, is enormous. It is an example and role model that can be replicated in the country,” he added.
Dhankhar said he was highly impressed by the successful conduct of G-20 meeting in Srinagar for which LG Sinha deserves appreciation. “Today, I am delighted to come to J&K after assuming office. Coming here and getting this feast of intellect, I will remember for long,” he added.
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