Former Union Minister and BJP leader Smriti Irani called out the Congress-led INDIA Alliance for their attempts to strangle the Indian Constitution in Jammu and Kashmir. She questioned whether the leaders of the alliance would stand in the way of the rights granted to tribal communities after the removal of Article 370. Accusing them of working for their own self-interest, Irani asserted that Article 370 would not be restored and their attempts to separate Jammu and Kashmir from India would not be successful.
Abrogation of Article 370 and Its Aftermath
Background
Article 370 of the Indian Constitution granted special autonomous status to the state of Jammu and Kashmir (J&K). This article prevented the application of most of the Indian laws and provisions to J&K, except for defense, foreign affairs, and communications. It also restricted Indian citizens from outside J&K from purchasing property or settling in the state.
Abrogation of Article 370
On August 5, 2019, the Indian government revoked Article 370 through a presidential order. The move was met with mixed reactions. While some supported the decision, citing the need for integration with the rest of India, others opposed it, arguing that it undermined the autonomy of J&K and violated its rights.
Consequences of the Abrogation
The abrogation of Article 370 has had significant consequences:
Political Reactions
The Congress-led INDIA Alliance, which opposes the government's decision to abrogate Article 370, has accused the government of betraying the trust of the people of J&K and undermining the Constitution. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), which supports the abrogation, has defended the move as necessary for national unity and development.
Smriti Irani's Statement
Former Union Minister and BJP leader Smriti Irani has criticized the INDIA Alliance for their alleged attempts to undermine the Constitution in J&K. She has questioned whether the alliance leaders would support tribal rights after the removal of Article 370 and accused them of working for their self-interest rather than the welfare of J&K.
Top 5 FAQs and Answers
1. Why was Article 370 revoked? Article 370 was revoked to integrate J&K with the rest of India, promote development, and address security concerns.
2. What are the consequences of the abrogation? The abrogation has removed J&K's special status, made the Indian Constitution fully applicable, and lifted restrictions on property and settlement.
3. What is the political response to the abrogation? The Congress-led INDIA Alliance opposes the abrogation while the BJP supports it.
4. What is Smriti Irani's stance on the issue? Irani has criticized the INDIA Alliance for allegedly undermining the Constitution in J&K and questioned their support for tribal rights.
5. What is the future of J&K? The future of J&K remains uncertain, as the region continues to grapple with political tensions and security challenges.
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