Supreme Court upholds Article 370 abrogation | Fusion - WeRIndia

The Supreme Court has reaffirmed its decision to uphold the Centre’s abrogation of Article 370, dismissing several petitions seeking a review of its December 11, 2023 verdict.

This ruling confirms the Centre’s 2019 move to revoke the special status of Jammu and Kashmir.

A five-judge bench led by Chief Justice DY Chandrachud reviewed the petitions in chambers. The bench found no error in the original judgment. 

The Supreme Court stated that after examining the review petitions, they found no clear error on the record. 

They concluded that there was no basis for a review under Order XLVII Rule 1 of the Supreme Court Rules 2013. Therefore, they dismissed the review petitions.

The December 11 verdict was a landmark decision, with the Supreme Court unanimously supporting the Centre’s decision to abrogate Article 370. This article granted special status to the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir. 

The court’s ruling also included a directive to hold assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir by the end of September 2024 and to restore its statehood “at the earliest.”

The decision to abrogate Article 370 has been a significant and contentious issue. 

Proponents argue that it integrates Jammu and Kashmir fully into India, while critics contend it undermines the region’s autonomy and could destabilize the area. 

The Supreme Court’s process of handling the review petitions was thorough yet efficient. By considering the petitions in chambers, the bench ensured a swift resolution. 

The bench’s statement underscores the clarity and correctness of their initial judgment, reinforcing the finality of the December verdict.

This latest decision emphasizes the judiciary’s role in upholding the rule of law and the Constitution. 

It also marks a significant step in the Centre’s efforts to normalize the situation in Jammu and Kashmir. 

With the Supreme Court’s backing, the focus now shifts to the implementation of the court’s directives, particularly the upcoming assembly elections and the restoration of statehood.

The directive for timely elections and restoration of statehood reflects the judiciary’s commitment to democratic processes and governance.

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