Union Home Minister Amit Shah has firmly stated that Article 370, which grants special status to Jammu and Kashmir, will not be reinstated, responding to Sharad Pawar’s call for its restoration. This statement was made during a rally in Maharashtra on November 7, 2024, where Shah emphasized that the abrogation of Article 370 is a significant achievement of the current government. Pawar, leader of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), had previously expressed concerns about the implications of this decision on regional stability and governance.
Shah’s Firm Stance on Article 370
At a rally in Maharashtra, Amit Shah reiterated the government’s position on Article 370, highlighting that its removal has led to increased development and integration of Jammu and Kashmir with the rest of India. He stated, “The abrogation of Article 370 has brought peace and progress to the region,” countering Pawar’s assertion that restoring the article would help address local grievances. During this rally, Shah criticized the Congress for its alliance with regional parties like the National Conference, suggesting that such partnerships threaten national security. He declared that Article 370 is “gone for good” and will never return.
Background Context
The abrogation of Article 370 in August 2019 marked a pivotal moment in Indian politics, revoking the special status previously granted to Jammu and Kashmir. This move has been met with mixed reactions; while some celebrate it as a step towards national integration, others argue it has exacerbated tensions in the region. Sharad Pawar’s recent remarks reflect a growing concern among opposition leaders regarding the socio-political climate in Jammu and Kashmir since the change. The debate over Article 370 continues to polarize opinions across political lines, with calls for dialogue becoming increasingly urgent.
Recent Updates on Article 370 and Jammu and Kashmir Politics
1. November 1, 2024 – Supreme Court Orders Assembly Elections in Jammu and Kashmir
The Supreme Court mandated that elections for the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly must be conducted by September 30, 2024, following a plea for restoration of statehood.
2. October 30, 2024 – Political Parties React to Election Timeline
Political leaders expressed mixed reactions to the Supreme Court’s ruling on assembly elections, with calls for a clear timeline on restoring statehood.
3. October 25, 2024 – Call for Restoration of Statehood Intensifies
Various political factions intensified their calls for restoring statehood as discussions around upcoming elections gained momentum.
4. October 22, 2024 – Supreme Court Agrees to Hear Statehood Plea
The Supreme Court agreed to consider a plea requesting a time-bound restoration of statehood for Jammu and Kashmir.
5. October 17, 2024 – Supreme Court Reviews Article 370 Abrogation
In a significant legal development, the Supreme Court reviewed petitions challenging the abrogation of Article 370.
6. October 15, 2024 – Political Mobilization Ahead of Elections
Political parties began mobilizing their bases in anticipation of assembly elections, focusing on local issues arising since the revocation of special status.
7. October 12, 2024 – Public Opinion Polls Indicate Support for Statehood
Recent public opinion polls indicated strong support among residents for restoring statehood amid concerns over governance since the region was restructured into Union Territories.
8. October 10, 2024 – Central Government Reiterates Commitment to Elections
The central government reaffirmed its commitment to conducting assembly elections as part of its strategy to stabilize governance in Jammu and Kashmir.
9. October 8, 2024 – Opposition Parties Unite on Statehood Demand
Opposition parties united to demand a clear timeline for restoring statehood ahead of elections.
10. October 5, 2024 – Anniversary of Article 370 Abrogation
As the anniversary approached, various civil society groups organized events discussing its impact on local communities.
