J&K voices must be heard: Manmohan

Tribune News Service

New Delhi, August 12 

In his first remarks on the abrogation of Article 370, former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh today said the result of the move was not to the liking of many people and it was crucial for the government to heed to voices of the people of the state for the idea of India to prevail and last.

Answering a related query after paying homage to the late Congress leader Jaipal Reddy here, Singh said, “India is passing through a deep crisis and it needs the cooperation of all like-minded people. The outcome of repealing special status to J&K is not to the liking of many people in the country. It is important that the voice of all these people be heard. It is only by raising our voice that we can ensure that in the long run, the idea of India, which is very sacred to us, must prevail.” Singh heads the Congress’ ‘J&K Policy Group’, which had warned the government against diluting constitutional guarantees, including Articles 370 and 35A, promised to J&K at the time of accession. The Congress Working Committee later again deplored the revocation of Articles 370 and 35A and bifurcation of the state. 

Singh, in a remembrance meeting for Jaipal Reddy, said, “Jaipal ji bid  farewell as a spotless leader who never faced any charge of corruption.”

‘Protect idea of India’

It is important that the voice of all these people be heard. It is only by raising our voice that we can ensure that in the long run, the idea of India, which is very sacred to us, will prevail. —Manmohan Singh, Ex-PM