Introduction
Article 370 of the Indian Constitution was a special provision that granted autonomous status to the state of Jammu and Kashmir. This article allowed the state to have its own constitution, flag, and autonomy over internal matters, except defense, foreign affairs, and communications. On August 5, 2019, the Government of India abrogated Article 370, leading to significant political and social changes in the region.
Historical Context
Article 370 was
introduced in 1949, drafted by N. Gopalaswami Ayyangar, a member of the
Constituent Assembly. It was meant to be a temporary provision, reflecting the
unique circumstances under which Jammu and Kashmir acceded to India in 1947.
The state’s special status was based on the Instrument of Accession signed by
Maharaja Hari Singh, the then ruler of Jammu and Kashmir, following an invasion
by Pakistan.
The Abrogation Process :-