'Article 370 gone forever; J-K, Ladakh free to forge their futures': affirms PM Modi after Supreme Court verdict

Article 370: Prime Minister Narendra Modi declared that Article 370 has been permanently revoked, granting the people of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh the unprecedented freedom to shape their destinies. In an exclusive interview with India Today, PM Modi emphasised his commitment to prioritising the nation throughout his political journey, from being a BJP worker to Chief Minister and now Prime Minister.

Multi-Pronged Approach for Peace and Prosperity

Discussing the Supreme Court's recent judgement on Article 370, PM Modi highlighted the government's multifaceted strategy for Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh. He outlined the focus on security, development, infrastructure investment, human capital, and comprehensive government process re-engineering through reforms. The Prime Minister affirmed that the region is steadfastly progressing towards sustainable peace, stability, and prosperity, with a keen emphasis on improving living standards, fostering economic growth, and creating employment opportunities.

Historic Supreme Court Verdict

The Supreme Court, earlier this month, upheld the Union Government's decision to revoke Article 370, which granted special status to Jammu and Kashmir. PM Modi applauded the verdict, describing it as a historic and constitutional endorsement of the Parliament's decision on August 5, 2019.

In a post on 'X', PM Modi expressed, "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 Ladakh."

Key Aspects of Supreme Court's Decision

The five-judge Constitution bench, including Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud and Justices Sanjay Kishan Kaul, Sanjiv Khanna, BR Gavai, and Surya Kant, delivered the verdict on petitions challenging the abrogation of Article 370. The court affirmed that Article 370 was a temporary provision, and its revocation was consistent with the temporary nature of the arrangement. The judgement highlighted that treating every decision by the Centre as legally challengeable would impede the administration of the State.

Revocation Background and Future Elections

The central government's announcement in August 2019 to revoke the special status of Jammu and Kashmir resulted in the region's bifurcation into two union territories. The Supreme Court's verdict additionally stressed that assembly polls in Jammu and Kashmir should be conducted by September next year.

PM Modi's affirmation reinforces the government's commitment to empowering the people of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh, heralding a new era of self-determination and progress.