Image: https://www.pmindia.gov.in/
PM Modi Claims Sardar Patel Could Not Unite Entire Kashmir due to Jawaharlal Nehru
On his 150th birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel at the Statue of Unity in Gujarat, Prime Minister Narendra Modi asserted that Patel aimed to integrate the entire Kashmir region into the Indian Union. He claimed that although Patel had succeeded in merging over 550 princely states, the aspiration to bring all of Kashmir into India was thwarted because then-Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru did not allow it.
Historical Context Highlighted
Modi referenced the constitutional special status of Jammu and Kashmir—noting the separate flag and constitution that emerged due to the then government’s decisions. He framed this as a historical mistake by the Indian National Congress, arguing it caused long-term harm to India’s integrity and unity.
Political Implications
The statement reinforces the BJP’s narrative that the Congress party failed India’s unity agenda, while positioning current leadership as completing Patel’s mission. The remarks are likely to resonate in political discourse ahead of forthcoming elections, especially in regions where the Kashmir issue remains highly emotive.
