Mehbooba Mufti, the president of the Jammu and Kashmir People’s Democratic Party (JKPDP) and a former chief minister of Jammu and Kashmir, confirmed the unwavering determination of the people in the region after the Supreme Court upheld the Union Government’s decision to revoke Article 370. She said, “Our fight for honor and dignity will continue regardless.” This is not the end of our journey.”
Despite the verdict, Mufti emphasized that the people of Jammu and Kashmir would not give up hope or surrender. She framed the Supreme Court’s decision on Article 370 as a setback not just for the region, but for India as a whole.
The people of J&K are not going to lose hope or give up. Our fight for honour and dignity will continue regardless. This isn’t the end of the road for us. pic.twitter.com/liRgzK7AT7
— Mehbooba Mufti (@MehboobaMufti) December 11, 2023
Challenging the celebration around the verdict, Mufti highlighted the restrictions imposed in J&K, citing the directive to keep shops closed until 10 a.m. and the situation of house arrest during the day of the verdict. She portrayed this as a political struggle with historical significance, urging unity to confront it.
Hasnain Masoodi, National Conference MP, expressed concerns about the unresolved issues post-bifurcation of the state into Union Territories, indicating that senior lawyers would evaluate the judgment to determine further actions.
The Supreme Court, led by Chief Justice DY Chandrachud and a five-judge bench, stated that every decision taken by the Center for a State under proclamation couldn’t be legally challenged to prevent administrative standstills. The Court reiterated that Article 370 was a temporary provision necessitated by war conditions, meant for the constitutional integration of Jammu and Kashmir with the Union.
Additionally, the apex court directed the Election Commission to conduct Jammu and Kashmir Assembly elections by September 30, 2024, and urged the expeditious restoration of the region’s statehood.
Congress MP Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury emphasized the urgency of the J&K elections and the reinstatement of full statehood following the SC’s verdict on Article 370.
The SC’s decision has ignited varied responses, reflecting the complexities and diverse opinions surrounding the abrogation of Article 370 and its aftermath in Jammu and Kashmir’s political landscape.