Anticipation and Anxiety: Supreme Court Verdict on Article 370 Sparks Hope and Concern in Jammu and Kashmir

“With the Supreme Court poised to deliver its verdict on Monday regarding the constitutional validity of the Center’s decision to abrogate the contentious Article 370, various political parties in Jammu and Kashmir are optimistic about the restoration of the provision. Meanwhile, on the ground, authorities have implemented “adequate” security measures. The BJP has called for non-politicization of the Supreme Court ruling, urging everyone to respect it.

Omar Abdullah, a leader from the National Conference, assured that his party would maintain peace even in the face of an adverse verdict. He emphasized a commitment to a lawful struggle. Mehbooba Mufti, president of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), insisted that the court’s decision should unequivocally declare the BJP-led government’s action as “illegal.”

Both the NC and PDP, members of the People’s Alliance for Gupkar Declaration (PAGD), advocate for the reinstatement of Article 370. Former Chief Minister Ghulam Nabi Azad expressed hope for a favorable Supreme Court verdict, asserting that only Parliament and the Supreme Court have the power to restore Articles 370 and 35A.

Despite concerns raised by various parties, Union Home Minister Amit Shah highlighted the absence of bloodshed during the critical period of Article 370’s abrogation. BJP’s J&K unit chief Ravinder Raina expressed confidence that the Supreme Court verdict would depoliticize the issue.

In response to potential unrest, authorities stated they have implemented sufficient security measures to maintain peace. Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kashmir Zone V K Birdi, emphasized the duty to ensure peace in the Valley and hinted at measures to curb the misuse of social media.

As the Supreme Court’s five-judge bench, led by Chief Justice D Y Chandrachud, prepares to deliver its verdict, the political landscape remains tense in Jammu and Kashmir. The outcome will have significant implications on the region’s constitutional status, and various stakeholders are closely watching the developments.”