‘Is it so difficult to be patriotic?’ Khurshid after remarks backing end of Article 370
New Delhi, June 3, 2025 — Congress leader Salman Khurshid has sparked controversy by appearing to support the abrogation of Article 370. After receiving strong criticism, he defended himself, asking, “Is it so difficult to be patriotic in this country?”
Khurshid made his statement while addressing the public at a recent event. He said the country must accept the removal of Article 370 as a reality and move forward instead of remaining stuck in the past.
Article 370 Still Sparks Political Debate
Article 370 once gave Jammu and Kashmir special autonomous status. In August 2019, the BJP-led government revoked it. They also split the state into two Union Territories — Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh.
The BJP described the move as a bold step toward unity and development. However, the Opposition, including Congress, opposed it. Many Congress leaders had called it unconstitutional and undemocratic.
Now, Khurshid’s recent comments suggest a shift from the party’s earlier position. This shift has triggered questions about the Congress party’s stance on Kashmir.
Khurshid Explains His Stand
Facing criticism, Khurshid clarified that he wasn’t praising the BJP. Instead, he urged people to accept the present situation and focus on healing and progress in Kashmir.
“There’s no clash between patriotism and practicality,” he said. “I didn’t say the process of removing Article 370 was right. I only said that we must deal with the situation as it is and rebuild trust in Kashmir.”
He then asked, “Is it so difficult to be patriotic? Why must patriotism depend on political loyalties?”
Congress Distances Itself from the Remark
Several Congress leaders reacted to Khurshid’s comments. Party veteran Jairam Ramesh said the Congress always believed the removal of Article 370 lacked legal and democratic process. He added that Khurshid’s words were his personal opinion, not the party’s.
A party leader, who wished to remain unnamed, said Khurshid may have meant well, but the timing was wrong. With elections nearing in Jammu and Kashmir, such comments could confuse voters.
BJP Welcomes Khurshid’s Statement
The BJP quickly responded. Union Minister Kiren Rijiju praised Khurshid for showing maturity and “accepting the truth.” BJP spokesperson Sambit Patra said, “Even top Congress leaders now admit that removing Article 370 was the right decision. The Congress should stop opposing it.”
Public Response Divided
Social media users gave mixed reactions. Some called Khurshid bold and practical. Others accused him of giving in to BJP’s narrative or betraying Kashmiris.
A few civil society members welcomed the tone of reconciliation. Political analyst Faizan Ahmad noted, “Facing reality doesn’t mean surrender. It’s often the first step toward healing.”
2025 Elections Add Pressure
The remarks come at a sensitive time. Jammu and Kashmir will likely vote in Assembly elections later this year. Political analysts say the Congress might be trying to shift its image to attract a broader voter base.
Neha Bhatt, a political commentator, explained, “Congress is trying to balance its opposition to BJP with a message of unity. Khurshid’s remarks might reflect a softer, more practical approach.”
Conclusion
Salman Khurshid’s pointed question — “Is it so difficult to be patriotic?” — has reignited debate on Article 370, nationalism, and political ideology. Whether the Congress will rethink its stance or label Khurshid’s view as personal remains to be seen.
What’s clear is that Article 370 continues to influence Indian politics. It remains a symbol of both past disputes and future hope.
