In a surprising statement, Congress leader Salman Khurshid praised the abrogation of Article 370, asserting that the move has led to increased prosperity and democratic engagement in Jammu and Kashmir. Speaking during a diplomatic visit to Indonesia as part of a multi-party Indian parliamentary delegation, Khurshid addressed Indonesian think tanks and academia, emphasizing that the special status under Article 370 had long fostered a sense of separatism.

"Kashmir was seen as different from the rest of India. The abrogation changed that," said the former External Affairs Minister. He highlighted a 65 percent voter turnout and the formation of an elected government in the Union Territory post-abrogation as evidence of democratic gains.

Khurshid also urged against reversing the decision, citing the development and peace that followed. His remarks signal a rare bipartisan acknowledgment of the benefits from one of India’s most debated constitutional moves.