![BJP vice president and former Minister, Surjeet Singh Slathia addressing a party meeting at village Hariyapur in district Kathua on Sunday. BJP vice president and former Minister, Surjeet Singh Slathia addressing a party meeting at village Hariyapur in district Kathua on Sunday.](https://cdndailyexcelsior.b-cdn.net/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/page5-18-696x374.jpg)
Excelsior Correspondent
KATHUA, Mar 10: Former Minister and BJP vice president JK UT, Surjeet Singh Slathia today reaffirmed the party’s unwavering commitment to the welfare and rights of the West Pakistan refugees who had long been marginalized and neglected.
Addressing a meeting, organized by the BJP Refugee Cell at Village Hariyapur in the district Kathua this afternoon, Slathia said the entire scenario changed after the abrogation of Article 370 that paved the way for refugees to enjoy all the rights and benefits of various Central schemes that remained out of bounds for them for nearly seven decades.
Slathia said the BJP, which is rooted in the principles of justice, equality, and inclusivity, always stood firmly in solidarity with the plight of these refugees and advocated for their rightful recognition and empowerment. He said despite their significant contributions to the cultural and socio-economic fabric of the nation in general and J&K in particular, they continued to struggle for basic rights. Recognizing the urgency of addressing their grievances, the BJP championed their cause at all the levels from time to time, he said and expressed happiness that repeal of Article 370 ended their ordeal to a large extent, he added
Slathia said that due to concerted efforts, the BJP secured justice and dignity for these deserving citizens, ensuring that they are provided equal opportunities and protection under the law. Furthermore, the BJP remains steadfast in its resolve to provide comprehensive support and assistance to the West Pakistan refugees, he added.
Referring to the urges of the West Pakistan refugees, Slathia assured that the BJP will continue to strive in a mission mode for addressing the concerns of the refugees as per the cherished agenda of the Prime Minister, Narendra Modi’s Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas, Sabka Prayas.
Prominent among those present on the occasion included Ashok Khajuria convenor BJP Cell J&K, Babu Ram Sharma convenor BJP Kathua, Ravi Sharma Mandal president Marheen Kathua, Karan Attri Chairman DDC Kathua, Rattan Lal, Surjit Singh, Prem Pal Choudhary and others.