2023-12-11 10:22:20
The Supreme Court of India on Monday, December 11, endorsed the decision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government to end the semi-autonomous status of Kashmir, home to an insurgency for decades.
The 2019 decision, which allowed New Delhi to directly administer this Muslim-majority region of Jammu and Kashmir, represented “a culmination of the integration process and, as such, a valid exercise of power”declared the highest court in the country in its verdict.
“Historic” decision
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi immediately welcomed this decision, which he described as“historical”. It is “a glimmer of hope, the promise of a better future and a testimony of our collective determination to build a stronger and more united India”said the Hindu nationalist leader on X (formerly Twitter).
Today’s Supreme Court verdict on the abrogation of Article 370 is historic and constitutionally upholds the decision taken by the Parliament of India on 5th August 2019; it is a resounding declaration of hope, progress and unity for our sisters and brothers in Jammu, Kashmir and…
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) December 11, 2023
India’s Supreme Court on Monday also ordered elections to be held in Jammu and Kashmir next year, saying it should be put on an equal footing with other Indian states. “as soon as possible”with a ballot to be organized by September 30, 2024.
Protest in Kashmir
The revocation of Kashmir’s limited autonomy was accompanied by the imposition of direct rule from New Delhi, mass arrests, a total closure of this state and a communications blackout that lasted for month, as India strengthened its armed forces in the region to contain the protests.
The decision was contested by Kashmir’s pro-India political parties, the local bar association and individuals, leading to Monday’s verdict.
Prime Minister Modi’s heavy-handed policies have been highly controversial in Kashmir, but have been widely celebrated across India as the insurgency that left tens of thousands dead for decades has largely subsided.
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