On August 5, 2019, the Government of India made a landmark decision by revoking Article 370 and Article 35A of the Constitution, which had granted special autonomy to the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir.
Under Article 370, the region had its own constitution and authority over internal matters—excluding defense, foreign affairs, and communications—while Article 35A, introduced via a 1954 Presidential Order, allowed the state legislature to define “permanent residents,” granting them exclusive rights over land, government jobs, and scholarships.
The central government argued that these provisions were temporary, hindered development, promoted separatism, and denied rights to several groups including women, Dalits, refugees, and marginalized communities. With their removal, all Indian constitutional laws now uniformly apply to Jammu and Kashmir. The region was also reorganized into two Union Territories: Jammu & Kashmir (with a legislative assembly) and Ladakh (without one).
Reactions to the move were mixed. Supporters saw it as a long-overdue step towards integration, equality, and modernization. They pointed to improved security, a decline in terrorist incidents, a rise in tourism, infrastructure expansion, and increased investment.
Communities such as West Pakistani refugees, Gorkhas, and Valmikis gained full citizenship rights, and women could now retain property rights even after marrying outside the region.
Critics, however, raised concerns over democratic principles and civil liberties. Many political leaders were detained without trial, and the region experienced weeks-long communication blackouts. Detractors argued that the move lacked public consultation and feared it could alter Kashmir’s demographic makeup and cultural identity by allowing non-locals to settle and buy land.
International response was largely restrained. While Pakistan strongly opposed the decision and reduced diplomatic ties, countries like the U.S., Russia, and France treated it as India’s internal matter. China expressed concerns, mainly due to its territorial claims related to Ladakh.
In December 2023, the Supreme Court upheld the constitutionality of the abrogation, affirming that Article 370 was always intended to be temporary. It also directed the government to restore statehood to Jammu and Kashmir and hold elections by September 2024, emphasizing the restoration of democratic governance.
In the years since the change, the region has seen remarkable progress. The 2024 general elections recorded the highest voter turnout in 35 years, reflecting increased civic participation. Cultural and religious events—such as Diwali at Sharda Temple, Muharram processions, and the reopening of cinema halls—signaled a social revival. Infrastructure development in areas like roads, healthcare, and education has accelerated. Government and private sector investments have grown steadily.
Digital transformation is also underway: land records are being digitized, and internet access has vastly improved, with rural regions being connected under BharatNet. Border tourism is being promoted, damaged temples are being restored, and scientific advancements in agriculture are helping farmers adopt modern methods.
While significant gains have been made, challenges persist. Healing the psychological scars of conflict, rebuilding trust, and ensuring that growth is inclusive remain critical. The government must focus on dialogue, democratic values, and cultural sensitivity to ensure long-term stability and harmony.
The abrogation of Articles 370 and 35A marks not just a constitutional shift but a transformative vision for Jammu and Kashmir’s future. The region has the opportunity to emerge as a symbol of unity, resilience, and inclusive development. If handled with care and commitment, this journey could redefine the region—not as a point of contention, but as a beacon of national integration and democratic empowerment.
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