Kashmir, October 31, 2025 – On the occasion of #RashtriyaEktaDiwas marking the 150th birth anniversary of #SardarVallabhbhaiPatel, Union Home Minister #AmitShah hailed Prime Minister #NarendraModi for realising the vision of a truly integrated #Bharat by scrapping #Article370 in #JammuAndKashmir.Speaking at the flagging off of the ‘Run for Unity’ event at Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium here, Shah emphasised that the abrogation of the contentious provision in 2019 completed #SardarPatel’s unfinished mission of national unification. “Because of #Article370, #JammuKashmir was not fully integrated into #India. #PMModi accomplished the work of #SardarPatel by abrogating the Article, and now we have ‘Akhand Bharat’ with us,” Shah declared, underscoring the historic move that ended the special status enjoyed by the region for over seven decades.
Recalling the challenges faced post-independence, Shah noted that the British departure left #India fragmented into 562 princely states, a scenario that baffled global observers. “The entire world thought it would be impossible to unite these 562 princely states into one nation. However, within a short span of time, #SardarPatel accomplished the monumental task of integrating all 562 princely states, and the map of modern #India that we see today is the result of his vision and efforts,” he said.The event, attended by Union Minister Mansukh L. Mandaviya, Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, and other dignitaries, saw participants taking an oath for #NationalUnity. Shah reiterated the government’s commitment to preserving the unity forged by Patel, describing it as the duty of every patriot to safeguard the nation “bound by the principles of justice and unity.”Prime Minister #NarendraModi also paid floral tributes to #SardarPatel at the Statue of Unity in Ekta Nagar, Gujarat, earlier in the day.
The nationwide ‘Run for Unity’ initiative, launched in 2015, symbolizes the collective resolve to honour Patel’s legacy of integration and harmony.The abrogation of #Article370 on August 5, 2019, remains a cornerstone of the #BJP government’s agenda, aimed at fostering development and equality across #JandK. Shah’s remarks come amid ongoing efforts to eradicate #Naxalism and promote inclusive growth, aligning with Patel’s iron-willed approach to nation-building.This year’s celebrations highlight the enduring relevance of #SardarPatel’s ideals in contemporary #India, with Shah crediting Modi’s leadership for bridging the gap between historical aspirations and modern realities.
