Defense Minister Rajnath Singh lauded the Supreme Court’s historic validation of the removal of Article 370, terming it a decision bound to bring joy to every Indian. Singh attributed this monumental achievement to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision, expressing confidence in the initiation of a new phase of development in Jammu and Kashmir.
“PM Narendra Modi’s decision to abolish Articles 370 and 35A has been upheld by the Supreme Court. This historic judgment will bring happiness to every Indian,” Singh expressed in a social media post. He added, “Abolishing Article 370, PM Modi has not only scripted a new narrative but also bolstered India’s unity and integrity. Jammu and Kashmir have now entered a phase of profound development.”
Singh further asserted his belief that under PM Modi’s leadership, the regions of Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh will emerge as frontrunners in terms of development and good governance.
Echoing Singh’s sentiments, Union Home Minister Amit Shah hailed the Supreme Court’s verdict, affirming that it ratified the government’s decision as completely constitutional. In a similar social media post, Shah welcomed the court’s judgment, emphasizing the restoration of peace and normalcy in Jammu and Kashmir since the revocation of Article 370 in 2019.
“Today’s verdict by the Supreme Court confirms the constitutional nature of abolishing Article 370. Peace and prosperity have returned to J&K after the visionary decision by PM Narendra Modi,” Shah stated.
Today’s Supreme Court verdict on the abrogation of Article 370 is historic and constitutionally upholds the decision taken by the Parliament of India on 5th August 2019; it is a resounding declaration of hope, progress and unity for our sisters and brothers in Jammu, Kashmir and…
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) December 11, 2023
The Supreme Court’s five-judge Constitution bench, including CJI DY Chandrachud, upheld the Center’s abrogation of Article 370, asserting that decisions made by the Center for a state are not subject to legal challenge. The Court deemed Article 370 a temporary provision instrumental in integrating Jammu and Kashmir constitutionally with the Union. It directed the Election Commission to conduct Jammu and Kashmir Assembly elections by September 30, 2024 and urged the expeditious restoration of statehood.
The central government’s announcement on August 5, 2019, revoking Jammu and Kashmir’s special status under Article 370 and bifurcating the region into two union territories, received confirmation and support from the Supreme Court’s recent decision.