India's Supreme Court Upholds Revocation of Jammu and Kashmir's Special Status, Severe Blow to Rights and Democracy

Indias Supreme Court Upholds Revocation of Jammu and Kashmirs Special Status, Severe Blow to Rights and Democracy
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India's Supreme Court has upheld the government's decision to revoke the special status of the former state of Jammu and Kashmir. This comes as a setback for the people of Jammu and Kashmir, according to National Conference (NC) leader Omar Abdullah. Abdullah expressed disappointment with the court's verdict, stating that it was a defeat for the people. He also raised concerns about the lack of economic growth and inclusivity in the region since the abrogation of Article 370. Abdullah questioned why the court did not announce a timeline for statehood. Meanwhile, the government has announced that elections in the region should be held by September 2024.

The revocation of Article 370, which granted autonomy to Jammu and Kashmir, was one of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's campaign promises. Critics argue that the government wants to change the demographic character of the Muslim-majority region. Kashmir's political leaders have been critical of the government's actions, claiming that they have faced house arrest and harassment since August 2019. Mehbooba Mufti, former chief minister of Jammu and Kashmir, called the revocation of Article 370 "unjust, illegal, and unconstitutional." The region has a long history of conflict and tension between India and Pakistan.


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