Even Prez discriminated in J&K before abrogation of Art 370: LG

Jammu: Asserting that the abrogation of Article 370 has reaffirmed Jammu and Kashmir is an integral part of India, the Lieutenant Governor, Manoj Sinha said that prior to August 5, 2019, the President of India- first citizen of the country, even could not own a house in Union Territory.
LG further pointed out that top military officials, who could own property anywhere else in India, were also prohibited from doing so in Jammu and Kashmir due to Article 370.
He noted that the revocation of Article 370 has now ended such restrictions, ensuring that Jammu and Kashmir is now on equal footing with the rest of the country.
"The abrogation of Article 370 has ensured that Jammu and Kashmir is now fully integrated with the rest of the country," the LG stated while addressing the Prof. Chaman Lal Gupta Khel Ratna Award 2024 ceremony.
He added that there was no longer any distinction between regions like Kashmir, Kanyakumari, Jammu, or Jaipur.
"We are one, united as 'Ek Bharat, Shreshth Bharat'," he remarked, affirming that the integration of Jammu and Kashmir with India has fostered true national unity and equality.
Lieutenant Governor also credited the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the transformation in Jammu and Kashmir over the past four to five years, which he said had paved the way for holistic development in the region.
LGcongratulated the talented sportspersons and sports officials, who have been conferred with this year’s award
“All the sports personalities awarded today are living embodiments of the positive change taking place in J&K. I am confident they will work with dedication to earn glory for the country through their performances and continue to inspire young generation,” he said.
Remembering Prof. Chaman Lal Gupta, the Lieutenant Governor said the former Union Minister devoted his life for the welfare of the people of Jammu Kashmir.
“The rapid development J&K UT has witnessed in the last few years is our tribute to him,” the Lieutenant Governor said.
“Sports is a powerful tool for positive change and has always served as a bridge to connect people of different cultures. Today, J&K is emerging as a hub of national and international sporting events. Our renewed thrust on state-of-the-art sports infrastructure and allied facilities and nurturing young talent have revolutionised the sports sector of J&K,” he said.
The Lieutenant Governor reiterated the commitment of the government, under the guidance of Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, to provide the platform and necessary handholding to the budding sportspersons of J&K.
He highlighted that the vibrant sports ecosystem is fulfilling the aspirations of the youth of Jammu Kashmir.
The new sports policy has kindled brighter hope for our talented sportspersons. Last year, we have witnessed a record 53 lakh participation from children and youth of the UT in various sports disciplines, besides 30,000 players from Jammu Kashmir participated in national and zonal tournaments and 46 players represented India in international tournaments, he further added.
“It is our dream to make J&K sportiest UT and a leading power in various sports disciplines. I am hopeful that our sportspersons will continue the tradition of success and valour in National and International games to realise this dream,” the Lieutenant Governor said.
The Lieutenant Governor also commended the important contribution of Sports Department, Sports Council and all the stakeholders in the promotion of sports in J&K.