Buzzbytes, Jammu : National Conference president, Farooq Abdullah, recently addressed the historical context and implications of Article 370 during a press conference in Jammu. He asserted that Article 370 was initially implemented by Maharaja Hari Singh in 1947, primarily as a protective measure. The main concern at the time was the potential migration of people from Punjab to Jammu and Kashmir post-partition, leading to fears that locals might be compelled to sell their land at reduced rates.Abdullah emphasized Maharaja Hari Singh’s intent behind introducing Article 370, highlighting its purpose to safeguard the interests of the indigenous population of Jammu and Kashmir. He pointed out that this provision reserved jobs exclusively for residents of J&K and Ladakh.However, the Supreme Court’s verdict in December 2023 upheld the Union Government’s decision to revoke Article 370, citing it as a temporary provision. The five-judge Constitution bench, led by Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud, reiterated that Article 370 was an interim measure, primarily established due to wartime conditions in the state.The Court’s decision highlighted that constantly challenging every decision taken by the Centre would hinder the administration of the State. Consequently, the central government, in August 2019, revoked the special status granted to Jammu and Kashmir under Article 370, bifurcating the region into two union territories.In its recent ruling, the Supreme Court further mandated that assembly polls in Jammu and Kashmir should be conducted by September of the upcoming year, paving the way for a renewed political landscape in the region.
Farooq Abdullah Comments on Article 370: A Historical Perspective and Recent Verdict
