The Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly has passed a resolution calling for the restoration of Article 370, which granted the region special status under India’s Constitution.
The resolution was introduced by Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Singh Choudhary, a leader of the National Conference (NC). Assembly Speaker Abdul Rahim Rathore conducted a vote after consulting with the members, with the majority supporting the resolution. However, lawmakers from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) strongly opposed the move, citing concerns about national unity and the integrity of India.
The resolution is a direct challenge to the Indian government’s controversial decision to revoke Article 370 in 2019, which stripped Jammu and Kashmir of its special autonomy. NC leader Aga Syed Ruhullah Mehdi criticized the BJP, stating, “The BJP does not represent Jammu, and the majority of the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly supports this resolution. Our fight for our rights must continue.”
Deputy Chief Minister Choudhary expressed optimism, saying, “We have clearly shown our position, and the people of Jammu and Kashmir want this. The youth of Jammu have specifically called for this.”
Mehbooba Mufti, leader of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), thanked Sajad Lone and independent legislators for their support, saying, “Today, I thank Sajad Lone and all independent MLAs for standing with us in this critical battle.”
The passage of the resolution has sparked celebrations among the people of Jammu and Kashmir, with many viewing it as a significant step toward the restoration of their rights and autonomy. Local residents expressed hope that the resolution would lead to substantial political change, calling it a momentous development for the region.
The move has also sent shockwaves through Indian politics, igniting debates about the constitutional status of Jammu and Kashmir. Political analysts see it as a strong rebuke to the Modi government’s policies and Hindutva ideology, particularly regarding the region’s ongoing struggle for autonomy. Many view it as a bold statement by the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly, signaling a persistent demand for the restoration of its special status.
This political shift is expected to have far-reaching implications, potentially rekindling discussions about the future of Article 370 and the region’s constitutional rights.
