The Supreme Court’s decision to hear a batch of the petitions challenging the abrogation of Article 370 on a day-to-day basis has brought renewed hope to the people of Jammu and Kashmir. Political leaders from various parties have expressed their confidence in the strength of their case and the opportunity for justice. As the proceedings unfold, the Supreme Court will ensure a fair and impartial examination of the constitutional changes that have had a profound impact on the lives of the people in the region. The verdict will be crucial in determining the future trajectory of Jammu and Kashmir.
The leaders of various political parties, including Omar Abdullah of the National Conference (NC), Mehbooba Mufti of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) have expressed their optimism about the upcoming hearings. Abdullah said that the delay in hearings reflected the strength of their case on the issue as otherwise the central government would have expedited the case. Mufti has expressed satisfaction with the Supreme Court’s decision to disregard the central government’s affidavit on the abrogation of Article 370. According to Mufti, this demonstrates that the government lacks a logical explanation for its actions. She also raised concerns about the sudden urgency with which the Supreme Court has taken up the case after remaining silent for four years.
However, for the central government, revocation of Article 370 is a fait accompli. Top government functionaries have made it clear that the constitutional provision will not be reversed under any circumstances. In a 20-page affidavit to the court, the centre defended its decision to abrogate Article 370 in 2019. Opposing the pleas challenging the abrogation of Article 370, the centre argued that stone-pelting incidents, which reached as high as 1,767 in 2018, have now ceased completely in 2023. The centre said its decision has brought “unprecedented stability and progress” to the region. The affidavit further highlighted that resolute anti-terror actions have led to the dismantling of the terrorist ecosystem, resulting in a significant drop in terrorist recruitment from 199 in 2018 to 12 in 2023.
However, the apex court has made it clear that the centre’s view on life in J&K post-Article 370 will have no bearing on constitutional challenge to abrogation, something that has been welcomed by the major political parties in the union territory. The court’s decision on the matter will be of momentous nature and, as such, the case will be eagerly followed not only in J&K but also across the country.
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