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The Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) Assembly witnessed a heated debate and a significant political maneuver on Wednesday as it passed a resolution demanding dialogue for the restoration of the region's special status. The resolution, moved by Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Kumar Choudhary, was supported by all parties except the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), which vehemently opposed it, labeling it illegal and unconstitutional.
The resolution specifically called for the government of India to initiate dialogue with elected representatives of J&K to discuss the restoration of the special status and constitutional guarantees that were revoked in 2019. It emphasized the importance of these provisions in safeguarding the identity, culture, and rights of the people of Jammu and Kashmir, expressing concern over their unilateral removal. Notably, while the resolution aimed for the restoration of special status, it carefully avoided direct mention of Articles 370 and 35A, the contentious provisions that were abrogated.
The passage of the resolution signals a significant step towards challenging the changes brought about in J&K after the abrogation of Article 370. While the resolution was described as 'half-hearted' by some, including Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chief Mehbooba Mufti, it represents the first formal rejection of the changes by the J&K Legislative Assembly. The resolution, while aiming for a restoration of special status, also underscored the importance of safeguarding both national unity and the legitimate aspirations of the people of Jammu and Kashmir.
The BJP, however, remained defiant, with its members storming the well of the House and shouting slogans against the resolution. They argued that the resolution was illegal and unconstitutional, asserting that the abrogation of Article 370 was a historical fact and could not be reversed. They also highlighted the mandate of the Assembly polls, claiming that the BJP had secured a larger share of votes than the National Conference (NC), indicating public support for the abrogation of Article 370.
Despite the BJP’s protests and attempts to disrupt the proceedings, the resolution was passed by a voice vote. This outcome underscores the political divide in J&K, with the NC-led government and its allies pushing for a dialogue and restoration of special status, while the BJP maintains its stance against any such move. The passage of the resolution sets the stage for further political maneuvering and potential legal challenges as both sides attempt to advance their respective agendas.