New Delhi, August 5, 2019: In a historic move, the Modi government has successfully abrogated Article 370 of the Indian Constitution, which granted special autonomous status to Jammu and Kashmir. Union Home Minister Amit Shah announced the proposal in the Rajya Sabha, marking the end of a long-standing provision.
The decision was met with strong opposition from various political parties, with the Congress party leading the charge against the move. Despite the protests, the government pushed forward with the proposal, which was passed in both houses of Parliament.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi's cabinet had previously decided to revoke Article 370, and the implementation began with increased security measures in the region. The move has been described as a bold and historic step in India's history.
Home Minister Amit Shah emphasized that the abrogation of Article 370 would bring Jammu and Kashmir fully under the Indian Constitution, ensuring uniformity across the country. The decision has sparked a mix of reactions, with some celebrating the move as a step towards national integration, while others criticize it as a threat to the region's autonomy.
The government has also imposed a communication blackout and deployed additional security forces to maintain order in the region. The political leaders of Jammu and Kashmir, including former Chief Ministers Omar Abdullah and Mehbooba Mufti, have been placed under house arrest.
The abrogation of Article 370 is seen as a significant moment in India's political landscape, with long-term implications for the region and the country as a whole.