J&K Assembly Calls for Restoration of Special Status Amid Heated Debate

The Jammu and Kashmir Assembly on Wednesday (November 6, 2024) passed a resolution advocating for the restoration of the former state’s special status under Article 370, which was abrogated by the Centre in 2019.

The session was marked by intense protest from BJP legislators, leading to multiple adjournments.

Assembly Backs Special Status Restoration Resolution

Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary introduced the resolution, urging the Indian government to engage in dialogue with elected representatives of J&K for restoring the special status and constitutional safeguards once enshrined under Article 370. Choudhary emphasized the importance of these protections for preserving the region’s unique identity, culture, and rights.

The resolution was supported by a majority, including non-coalition legislators. In the 90-member Assembly, 60 legislators, including members from the National Conference (NC), Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Awami Ittehad Party (AIP), and J&K Peoples Conference, voted in favor. The NC, with 55 legislators, was backed by several independents and smaller parties.

BJP Legislators Protest Resolution

The BJP legislators strongly opposed the move, leading to a heated exchange. Leader of the Opposition Sunil Sharma questioned the unexpected introduction of the resolution, arguing that it was not part of the scheduled business, which was initially focused on discussing the Lieutenant Governor’s address.

Following the resolution’s passage, BJP members stormed the well of the House, demanding a retraction. Speaker Abdur Rahim Rather called for order, but the protests continued, forcing him to adjourn proceedings twice before finally calling off the session for the day.

Background of Article 370 Abrogation

In 2019, the Indian government revoked Article 370, ending Jammu and Kashmir’s special status and bifurcating the former state into two Union Territories: Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh. Since then, political leaders in J&K, particularly from NC and PDP, have consistently pushed for reinstating the region’s autonomous status.

The resolution represents a significant move by the J&K Assembly and renews calls for a federal dialogue to address the aspirations of the region’s people while preserving national unity. The assembly’s stance has now set the stage for a continued political debate on the region’s status and identity.