Supreme Court Upholds Abrogation of Article 370, Orders J&K Elections by September 2024

New Delhi : In a landmark judgement, the Supreme Court of India today upheld the constitutional validity of the central government's abrogation of Article 370, which granted special status to the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir. The court also ordered the Election Commission of India to conduct elections to the Legislative Assembly of Jammu and Kashmir by September 30, 2024.

The 5-judge bench, led by Chief Justice of India, observed that Article 370 was a temporary provision and its abrogation was within the powers of the central government. The court further stated that the Presidential rule imposed in Jammu and Kashmir in December 2018 was not challenged by the petitioner and hence, it could not be commented upon.

The judgement comes after a prolonged legal battle, with several petitions challenging the government's move to revoke Article 370. The petitioners raised concerns about the process followed by the government, alleged violation of fundamental rights, and the impact on the people of Jammu and Kashmir.

The court's decision is expected to have a significant impact on the political landscape of Jammu and Kashmir. The order to hold elections paves the way for a democratically elected government in the region after a period of central rule. However, the long-term implications of the abrogation of Article 370 on the social, economic, and security situation in Kashmir remain to be seen.

Key Highlights of the Judgement:

Supreme Court upholds abrogation of Article 370 as constitutionally valid.

Ladakh reorganisation as a Union Territory upheld.

Election Commission of India ordered to conduct J&K Assembly elections by September 2024.

Presidential rule in J&K not commented upon due to lack of specific challenge.

This landmark judgement marks a turning point in the history of Jammu and Kashmir. The coming months will be crucial in observing the implementation of the court's order and its impact on the region.