Mehbooba Mufti Disagrees with Supreme Court’s Verdict on Article 370
Introduction
Mehbooba Mufti, the former Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, has publicly expressed her disagreement with the recent Supreme Court verdict that upheld the abrogation of Article 370. She emphasized that, in her view, the verdict does not represent the finality of the matter.
Historical Background
The princely state of Jammu and Kashmir acceded to India in 1947 post the partition of the subcontinent. Article 370, positioned in Part XXI of the Indian constitution titled “Temporary, Transitional and Special Provisions,” was formulated to provide special provisions for the state.
Abrogation of Article 370
On August 5, 2019, the Indian government nullified nearly all of Article 370 through a resolution passed in both houses of Parliament with a two-thirds majority.
Reorganisation of Jammu and Kashmir
Following the abrogation, the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Act, 2019 was enacted, leading to the bifurcation of the state into two union territories: Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh.
Mufti’s Stand on the Verdict
Mufti, the leader of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), contended that the Supreme Court’s ruling is not an ultimate decree and affirmed her party’s commitment to advocating for the reinstatement of Jammu and Kashmir’s special status.
The Struggle Continues
Despite the court’s ruling, Mufti remains optimistic and steadfast in her cause, stating, “We don’t have to lose heart. We will continue our struggle.” She reiterated that the struggle in Jammu and Kashmir is a longstanding political issue.
Mufti’s Earlier Remarks
Mufti had earlier characterized the Supreme Court’s verdict as a “death sentence” for Jammu and Kashmir and the idea of India. She urged the people to remain hopeful and persevere in their fight.
Other Voices
Omar Abdullah, the vice-president of the National Conference, also expressed disappointment over the ruling and committed to the ongoing struggle.
The Supreme Court’s Ruling
The Supreme Court upheld the government’s 2019 decision to abrogate Article 370 and mandated elections in the region by September 30 next year.
Conclusion
While the Supreme Court’s decision is a pivotal moment in the debate over Article 370, leaders like Mehbooba Mufti and Omar Abdullah continue to voice their opposition, pledging to persist in their struggle.
FAQs
1. What is Article 370?
A: Article 370 was a provision in the Indian constitution granting special autonomy to Jammu and Kashmir, allowing it to have its constitution and state flag.
2. When was Article 370 abrogated?
A: Article 370 was abrogated on August 5, 2019, by the Indian government.
3. What happened after the abrogation of Article 370?
A: Post abrogation, Jammu and Kashmir was reorganized into two Union territories: Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh.
4. What was the Supreme Court’s verdict on the abrogation of Article 370?
A: In December 2023, the Supreme Court upheld the government’s decision to abrogate Article 370 and mandated elections in the region by September 30, 2024.
5. What has been the reaction of local leaders to the Supreme Court’s verdict?
A: Local leaders like Mehbooba Mufti and Omar Abdullah have expressed disagreement with the Supreme Court’s verdict and committed to the ongoing struggle for the restoration of Jammu and Kashmir’s special status.