Article370 – BJP Renews Demand for Clarity on Mukherjee Death Case

Article370 – The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Monday renewed its call for answers regarding the death of Bharatiya Jana Sangh founder Shyama Prasad Mukherjee, marking the 73rd anniversary of his passing. Speaking in Srinagar, BJP national general secretary and Rajya Sabha member Tarun Chugh questioned why the circumstances surrounding Mukherjee’s death in 1953 have never been fully clarified and why no inquiry findings were made public.

BJP Raises Historical Questions

Addressing journalists in the summer capital, Chugh said Mukherjee’s contribution and sacrifice held a special place in India’s political history, particularly in relation to Jammu and Kashmir. He argued that several important questions connected to the incident remain unanswered even after more than seven decades.

Mukherjee died in Srinagar on June 23, 1953, while in custody after being arrested for entering Jammu and Kashmir without a permit. At the time, he was leading a campaign against the special constitutional arrangements that governed the erstwhile state.

Focus on Sheikh Abdullah’s Tenure

Chugh also referred to the tenure of Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah, who was the head of the Jammu and Kashmir government when Mukherjee died. He questioned why details surrounding the arrest, detention and subsequent death had not been publicly explained.

According to the BJP leader, the people of the country deserve to know the circumstances that led to the incident. He asked whether an independent investigation was ever conducted and, if so, why its conclusions were not disclosed to the public.

Debate Over Jammu and Kashmir’s Constitutional Status

During his interaction with the media, Chugh said Mukherjee stood firmly against the idea of separate constitutional arrangements for Jammu and Kashmir. He stated that the Jana Sangh founder advocated complete integration of the region with the rest of India and opposed the existence of separate political and constitutional provisions.

The BJP leader claimed that Mukherjee’s political vision was centered on national unity and that his opposition to the special status of Jammu and Kashmir became a defining chapter of his public life.

Reference to 2019 Constitutional Changes

Chugh further said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi fulfilled Mukherjee’s long-standing objective on August 5, 2019, when Articles 370 and 35A were revoked. He maintained that the move helped bring Jammu and Kashmir into the national mainstream and opened new avenues for development and investment.

He described the constitutional changes as a significant milestone in the region’s political journey and credited them with creating opportunities for economic growth.

Call for Commemoration of 1947 Victims

The BJP leader also urged the Jammu and Kashmir administration to observe a day of remembrance for civilians who lost their lives during the tribal invasion of the princely state in 1947. He said the suffering endured by residents during that period should be formally acknowledged and remembered.

Chugh stated that many innocent people were killed and displaced during the violence, making it an important chapter in the region’s history.

Statehood and Tourism Outlook

Responding to questions on the restoration of statehood to Jammu and Kashmir, Chugh reiterated that the Union government remains committed to the process. He pointed to earlier assurances made by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Parliament and expressed confidence that statehood would be restored in due course.

Highlighting the region’s tourism sector, Chugh described Jammu and Kashmir as one of India’s most attractive destinations. He said the successful hosting of major international gatherings, including the G20 meeting in Srinagar, reflected the region’s growing profile on the global stage. He also encouraged tourists from across the country and abroad to visit Kashmir and experience its natural beauty and cultural heritage.