[Answered] The SC judgment on abrogation of Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir represents a significant shift in the federal structure of India, with implications that extend beyond the region. Examine the statement.

The Supreme Court’s judgment on the abrogation of Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir indeed marks a significant shift in the federal structure of India, carrying implications that reach beyond the region.

Implications from abrogation of Article 370

• Corruption: Corruption has been a longstanding issue in Kashmir, where several of India’s anti-corruption laws did not apply. It is widely acknowledged that political figures in the region have historically benefited financially from various sources. With the abrogation of Article 370, the central government now has the authority to address corruption effectively, opening avenues for the development of the region.
• Administrative changes: The reclassification of Kashmir to a union territory puts it under direct central government control, mirroring Puducherry and Delhi, while Ladakh aligns with territories like Andaman and Nicobar. This change facilitates increased central involvement in regional development, and the application of the 73rd and 74th Amendments is expected to boost local participation in governance.
• Security concerns: Reclassifying Kashmir as a union territory is expected to improve security by allowing swift anti-terrorism actions. The strengthened National Intelligence & police aims to enhance control over violence in Kashmir. The central government’s direct involvement in security operations will lead to better coordination among security forces, the army, and state police.
• Constitutional Implications: The judgment emphasizes the constitutional unity and integration of Jammu and Kashmir with the rest of India, asserting a common constitutional framework for all states and union territories. Supreme Court’s decision sets a legal precedent, reinforcing the supremacy of the Indian Constitution over special provisions that grant autonomy to specific regions.
• Federal Structure Shift: The abrogation of Article 370, coupled with the bifurcation of the state into two union territories (Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh) in 2019, marks a departure from the historical autonomy enjoyed by Jammu and Kashmir. The removal of special status implies a move towards greater centralization, aligning Jammu and Kashmir with the governance structure of other Indian states.

Conclusion

The Supreme Court’s ruling on the abrogation of Article 370 marks a pivotal juncture in India’s federal structure, symbolizing a shift towards a more standardized governance framework and questioning the longstanding autonomy of Jammu and Kashmir. Its repercussions go beyond the region, impacting constitutional interpretations, national cohesion, and geopolitical dynamics. The aftermath of this decision is an ongoing force shaping political and social dynamics in the area, drawing attention both nationally and internationally.