Governor Kavinder Gupta on Friday said the abrogation of Article 370 marked a historic step towards justice and equality for the Valmiki community in Jammu & Kashmir, which, he said, had faced decades of discrimination and denial of rights.
Addressing the inaugural session of the 19th National Convention of the Akhil Bhartiya Valmiki Mahasabha at Chaudhary Sarwan Kumar Himachal Pradesh Agricultural University, the Governor said the removal of Article 370 ensured constitutional rights and equal opportunities for deprived communities, including the Valmiki Samaj and Gorkhas in Jammu & Kashmir.
Paying tribute to Maharishi Valmiki and Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, Gupta said Prime Minister Narendra Modi had taken a bold decision that paved the way for social justice, better education, employment opportunities and welfare benefits for marginalized communities in the region.
He urged people, especially the youth, to follow the teachings of Maharishi Valmiki and work towards truth, compassion, social harmony and service to society. Stressing the importance of national unity and moral values, the Governor said the vision of “Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas” was helping ensure inclusive growth across the country.
The Governor also praised the Valmiki community for its contribution to the success of the Swachh Bharat Mission and called upon the younger generation to uphold the ideals of education, service and righteousness.
Nurturing Creativity – Keekli Charitable Trust, Shimla
