Repeal of Art 370 paved way for empowerment of refugees: Slathia

KATHUA – Former minister and BJP Pradesh Vice President 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 the refugees have faced countless hardships and injustices over the decades. 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, including citizenship, land ownership, and access to essential services. 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 afforded equal opportunities and protections under the law. Furthermore, the BJP remains steadfast in its resolve to provide comprehensive support and assistance to the West Pakistan refugees, including access to education, healthcare, housing, and employment opportunities. By empowering these marginalized communities, the BJP seeks to foster a more inclusive and prosperous society, where every individual has the opportunity to thrive and succeed, 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 Yashasvi 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 others1