The Indian Home Minister Amit Shah has said that with the removal of Article 370, the government has fulfilled the first Indian home minister Sardar Patel’s dream of a united India. This was a step that previous governments did not take, but now, with this step taken, Kashmir becomes an integral part of India. Shah said that the government of the day has fulfilled the dream of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee with the abrogation of Article 370.

He also said that the abrogation of Articles 370 and 35A is a big step forward for the unity and integrity of India. Moreover, this step has removed all obstacles in the path of holistic development of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh. Shah emphasised that such a courageous step can be taken only by those who think in terms of national interest. Shah praised the removal of Article 370 by 370 votes as a historic one by the Parliament.

Focusing on Prime Minister Narendra Modi announcement of the creation of the post of Chief of Defence Staff, Shah said that the creation of the post will ensure greater synergy among forces. He hailed the decision as a force multiplier for India’s armed forces.