In a landmark decision, the Supreme Court, led by Chief Justice DY Chandrachud, declared the constitutional validity of the abrogation of Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir. The 5-judge bench asserted that the power to annul Article 370 was crucial for the integration of the region into India. The court further directed the Election Commission of India to conduct assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir by September 30, 2024.
Table of Contents
Armed Forces Veterans Applaud Verdict
Former army chief General Ved Prakash Malik (retd) expressed his satisfaction with the verdict on social media platform X, stating, “Delighted to see the end of Article 370. It was often misinterpreted by vested interests and became an obstruction in India’s national interest and security.” General Malik, who served as the army chief during the 1999 Kargil war, hailed the decision.
Lieutenant General KJS Dhillon (retd) echoed the sentiment, emphasizing, “Articles 370 and 35A had to go!” He quoted, ‘Kitne Ghazi Aaye, Kitne Ghazi Gaye,’ indicating a historic moment in the resolution of the Kashmir issue. Major General Brajesh Kumar highlighted the significance of the verdict, foreseeing a paradigm shift in dealing with Pakistan at the Line of Actual Control (LAC) and the AGPL (Actual Ground Position Line).
Colonel S Dinny (retd) underlined the civilizational and constitutional integration of Jammu and Kashmir with India, describing the verdict as truly historic. Brigadier Jay Kaul (retd) commended the apex court’s historical judgment, asserting that it puts to rest all controversies and acknowledges the bold initiative taken by the present government.
Supreme Court’s Perspective on Article 370 Abrogation
The Supreme Court’s rationale behind the verdict centered on the historical context, citing the proclamation of the Maharaja that stated the Constitution of India would supersede. The court emphasized that Article 370 was an interim arrangement due to war conditions in the state and deemed it a temporary provision. The ruling effectively nullified the special status of Jammu and Kashmir, leading to its division into union territories, including Ladakh.
