Article 370 of the Indian Constitution
Article 370 of the Indian Constitution granted special status to the state of Jammu and Kashmir (J&K). It allowed J&K to have its own constitution, laws, and autonomy in most matters, except in defense, foreign affairs, communications, and finance. However, on August 5, 2019, the Government of India revoked Article 370, stripping J&K of its special status and reorganizing it into two Union Territories – Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh.
1. Key Provisions of Article 370 (Before Revocation)
✔ Special Status – J&K had more autonomy than other Indian states.
✔ Separate Constitution – J&K had its own constitution, flag, and laws.
✔ Limited Applicability of Indian Laws – Laws passed by the Indian Parliament applied only if J&K agreed.
✔ No Right to Purchase Land – Non-Kashmiris could not buy land in J&K.
✔ Governor’s Role – The Governor acted as the Head of the State, but many powers remained with the local government.
📌 Example: Before 2019, if the Indian government wanted to apply a new law to J&K, it needed the state’s approval.
2. Why Was Article 370 Removed?
The government justified its removal on the following grounds:
✅ Integration with India – Bringing J&K at par with other Indian states.
✅ Economic Development – Opening up investment and job opportunities.
✅ Ending Terrorism & Separatism – Preventing Pakistan-backed extremism.
✅ Uniform Laws – Applying the same Indian laws across all states.
📌 Example: After revocation, non-Kashmiris can now buy property in J&K, just like in other Indian states.
3. How Was Article 370 Removed?
✔ On August 5, 2019, the Indian government, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah, passed a Presidential Order under Article 370(3) to revoke its special status.
✔ The Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Act, 2019, was passed in Parliament, converting J&K into two Union Territories:
- Jammu & Kashmir (with a legislature)
- Ladakh (without a legislature)
4. Impact of Article 370 Removal
Positive Effects:
✔ Equal Rights – J&K citizens now have the same rights as other Indians.
✔ More Investments – Private companies can invest in J&K.
✔ Better Law & Order – Stronger control over terrorism and security.
✔ Reservations & Welfare Schemes – SCs, STs, OBCs, and women now benefit from central government programs.
Challenges:
❌ Political Unrest – Some locals protested against the decision.
❌ Internet & Security Restrictions – Internet services and movement were restricted temporarily.
❌ Diplomatic Tensions – Pakistan opposed the move and downgraded diplomatic ties with India.
5. Conclusion
The revocation of Article 370 was a historic decision that ended J&K’s special status and fully integrated it with India. While it has brought economic opportunities and development, political and security challenges still exist.
