The day after Jammu and Kashmir entered a new phase in history is a good time to look at the challenges ahead.

There are political, security, international and legal challenges to life without Article 370 and 35A.

This is, perhaps, the BJP's biggest political challenge, the shape and magnitude of which is not yet clear. Only when the state leaders and separatist activists are freed from detention, communication channels and transport modes restored and political activities allowed in the state, will the Centre know what it is up against. Until then the form and nature of the challenge, including beyond the state, would be a matter of conjecture.

Ending the lock-down of Jammu and Kashmir and restoring conditions for normal life is as much a political as a security issue. Lifting the security blanket could mean unforeseen eruptions testing public order and security. Assessing the security situation calls precise intelligence, its practical interpretation and a sense of the situation. And, that is no easy task.

How India deals with Jammu and Kashmir, as has been reiterated, is India's internal affair. Yet there is no denying international interest in the matter. This means that India's historic decision has to win international acceptance. The UN and the US have responded cautiously with reservations. New Delhi has briefed the members of the UN Security Council. So has Pakistan and, so far, there is no reaction apparently based on Islamabad’s briefing. But that is neither here nor there. The international community remains a challenge to be dealt with.

Legally, there are arguments for and against the constitutional validity of the government’s action. More than the force of public opinion, the supreme test will be in the Supreme Court. It will be challenge as much for the government as for the apex court. The court has to clarify whether the decision affects the basic structure of the constitutional scheme.

(Disclaimer: WION Edit is the channel's take on the big events of the world)

The day after Jammu and Kashmir entered a new phase in history is a good time to look at the challenges ahead. There are political, security, international and legal challenges to life without Article 370 and 35A.

The day after Jammu and Kashmir entered a new phase in history is a good time to look at the challenges ahead. There are political, security, international and legal challenges to life without Article 370 and 35A. This is, perhaps, the BJP's biggest political challenge, the shape and magnitude of which is not yet clear. Only when the state leaders and separatist activists are freed from detention, communication channels and transport modes restored and political activities allowed in the state, will the Centre know what it is up against. Until then the form and nature of the challenge, including beyond the state, would be a matter of conjecture. Ending the lock-down of Jammu and Kashmir and restoring conditions for normal life is as much a political as a security issue. Lifting the security blanket could mean unforeseen eruptions testing public order and security. Assessing the security situation calls precise intelligence, its practical interpretation and a sense of the situation. And, that is no easy task. How India deals with Jammu and Kashmir, as has been reiterated, is India's internal affair. Yet there is no denying international interest in the matter. This means that India's historic decision has to win international acceptance. The UN and the US have responded cautiously with reservations. New Delhi has briefed the members of the UN Security Council. So has Pakistan and, so far, there is no reaction apparently based on Islamabad’s briefing. But that is neither here nor there. The international community remains a challenge to be dealt with. Legally, there are arguments for and against the constitutional validity of the government’s action. More than the force of public opinion, the supreme test will be in the Supreme Court. It will be challenge as much for the government as for the apex court. The court has to clarify whether the decision affects the basic structure of the constitutional scheme. (Disclaimer: WION Edit is the channel's take on the big events of the world)

WION Edit: Life after Article 370 - challenges ahead

Union Home Minister Amit Shah today in his reply to the debate on abrogation of Article 370 in Lok Sabha said that it was the root cause of terrorism in J&amp;K and also creating doubts over J&amp;K's relations with India.

"India will continue to claim Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. When normalcy returns to J&amp;K, govt will have no hesitation in restoring its full statehood," said Shah.

The Lok Sabha passed the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Bill that seeks to scrap&nbsp;Article 370&nbsp;and&nbsp;Article 35A&nbsp;in Jammu and Kashmir, while also bifurcating the state into union territories of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh.

The Bill was passed by the Lower House&nbsp;through a voice vote, with 367&nbsp;being in favour and 67&nbsp;against it.

What did you get from Article 370? The article has brought nothing to the state but has increased terrorist activities and poverty in the state. When the Article 370 is scrapped there will be development, there will be employment, Shah said in Lok Sabha.

“Article 370 is root cause of terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir. It allowed the terror networks to spread in the state,” Shah said replying to the debate.

Clarifying the doubts created by opposition leaders over Article 371 Home Minister said that Modi govt has no intention to remove Article 371 which gives certain special rights to some Northeast states.

Home Minister also pulled up Congress leader in Lok Sabha Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury for questioning the government how Jammu and Kashmir issue can be an "internal issue" if it is under United Nations' monitoring since 1948.

Talking about the bloodshed due to misuse of Article 370 Amit Shah said that more than 41 thousand people died due to this. Should we still follow this path. He further accused the opposition by saying the dynasties have used Article 370 for their benefit.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah today in his reply to the debate on abrogation of Article 370 in Lok Sabha said that it was the root cause of terrorism in J&K and also creating doubts over J&K's relations with India.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah today in his reply to the debate on abrogation of Article 370 in Lok Sabha said that it was the root cause of terrorism in J&K and also creating doubts over J&K's relations with India. "India will continue to claim Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. When normalcy returns to J&K, govt will have no hesitation in restoring its full statehood," said Shah. The Lok Sabha passed the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Bill that seeks to scrap Article 370 and Article 35A in Jammu and Kashmir, while also bifurcating the state into union territories of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh. The Bill was passed by the Lower House through a voice vote, with 367 being in favour and 67 against it. What did you get from Article 370? The article has brought nothing to the state but has increased terrorist activities and poverty in the state. When the Article 370 is scrapped there will be development, there will be employment, Shah said in Lok Sabha. “Article 370 is root cause of terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir. It allowed the terror networks to spread in the state,” Shah said replying to the debate. Clarifying the doubts created by opposition leaders over Article 371 Home Minister said that Modi govt has no intention to remove Article 371 which gives certain special rights to some Northeast states. Home Minister also pulled up Congress leader in Lok Sabha Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury for questioning the government how Jammu and Kashmir issue can be an "internal issue" if it is under United Nations' monitoring since 1948. Talking about the bloodshed due to misuse of Article 370 Amit Shah said that more than 41 thousand people died due to this. Should we still follow this path. He further accused the opposition by saying the dynasties have used Article 370 for their benefit.

In a point-by-point rebuttal, Amit Shah takes on Congress in fiery speech after abrogation of Article 370

After the Central Government's decision to revoke Article 370 and bifurcate the state of Jammu and Kashmir into two Union Territories, Committee of Administrators (COA) chief, Vinod Rai on Tuesday said that Jammu and Kashmir will continue to play as Jammu &amp; Kashmir and Ladakh will be a part of J&amp;K.

The chief also said that if Ladakh becomes a voting member of the BCCI, then the body would look into the matter and sort things out.

"Jammu and Kashmir would continue to be the Ranji team. Players from Ladakh would be the part of Jammu and Kashmir. If Ladakh becomes voting member, then we will see to it and sort it out," CoA chief Vinod Rai told ANI.

The government has bifurcated the state to create two union territories, but this revelation by the CoA chief indicates that the BCCI does not plan on creating a state body for the newest UT.

The upcoming Ranji Trophy season is scheduled to start in December later this year.

On August 4, Jammu and Kashmir cricket team mentor-cum-coach Irfan Pathan had revealed that he, along with around 100 other cricketers, were asked to leave the camp at the earliest.

This had come after the Jammu and Kashmir administration issued an advisory to tourists and Amarnath Yatris to leave the Valley immediately, citing a terror threat.

Speaking to ANI, Pathan had said, "Our camp has been shut down and the cricketers were sent back to their homes. The camp was from June 14 to July 14 and after a break of ten days, camp restarted from July 25. Yesterday, about 100 players were sent back to their home."

"The matches were scheduled from July 31 and will last till August 17. These matches were organised for the selection of district cricketers," he had added.

The 34-year-old, who was appointed as the mentor-cum-coach of the Jammu and Kashmir cricket team on July 1 last year, had said that the support staff was also asked to leave the state.

After the Central Government's decision to revoke Article 370 and bifurcate the state of Jammu and Kashmir into two Union Territories, Committee of Administrators (COA) chief, Vinod Rai on Tuesday said that Jammu and Kashmir will continue to play as Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh will be a part of J&K.

After the Central Government's decision to revoke Article 370 and bifurcate the state of Jammu and Kashmir into two Union Territories, Committee of Administrators (COA) chief, Vinod Rai on Tuesday said that Jammu and Kashmir will continue to play as Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh will be a part of J&K. The chief also said that if Ladakh becomes a voting member of the BCCI, then the body would look into the matter and sort things out. "Jammu and Kashmir would continue to be the Ranji team. Players from Ladakh would be the part of Jammu and Kashmir. If Ladakh becomes voting member, then we will see to it and sort it out," CoA chief Vinod Rai told ANI. The government has bifurcated the state to create two union territories, but this revelation by the CoA chief indicates that the BCCI does not plan on creating a state body for the newest UT. The upcoming Ranji Trophy season is scheduled to start in December later this year. On August 4, Jammu and Kashmir cricket team mentor-cum-coach Irfan Pathan had revealed that he, along with around 100 other cricketers, were asked to leave the camp at the earliest. This had come after the Jammu and Kashmir administration issued an advisory to tourists and Amarnath Yatris to leave the Valley immediately, citing a terror threat. Speaking to ANI, Pathan had said, "Our camp has been shut down and the cricketers were sent back to their homes. The camp was from June 14 to July 14 and after a break of ten days, camp restarted from July 25. Yesterday, about 100 players were sent back to their home." "The matches were scheduled from July 31 and will last till August 17. These matches were organised for the selection of district cricketers," he had added. The 34-year-old, who was appointed as the mentor-cum-coach of the Jammu and Kashmir cricket team on July 1 last year, had said that the support staff was also asked to leave the state.

No separate state team for Ladakh in Ranji Trophy

Looks like Kashmir will be out of bounds for filmmakers in the following months to come after the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/article-370-revoked-shah-lauds-modi-for-unwavering-commitment-towards-ensuring-indias-unity-integrity-240935">repeal of Article 370</a> that has led to the region falling in a state of uncertainty. Prominent actors like Sanjay Dutt, Sidharth Malhotra and Alia Bhatt among others were scheduled to shoot in the state but their plans will now have to be put on hold.&nbsp;

Sidharth who will next be seen in ‘Jabariya Jodi’ with Parineeti Chopra, was supposed to start work on Captain Vikram Batra’s biopic ‘Shershaah’ that was supposed to be shot in the Valley. The film is directed by Vishnu Varadhan is written by Sandeep Srivastava as the movie is backed by Karan Johar’s Dharma Productions.

The shooting schedule has so far been pushed with no update on the new date.&nbsp;

Alia Bhatt was also supposed to start work in the Valley for her film ‘Sadak 2’ which had to have an important segment shot there. The film will have Sanjay Dutt, Alia Bhatt and Makarand Deshpande, who essays the role of a godman in the movie.&nbsp;

‘Sadak 2’ will have Mahesh Bhatt on the directorial seat. The shooting is on hold for now.

Apart from these, there were supposed to be a couple of other films that were to start shooting in the state of Jammu and Kashmir. Line producer Md. Abdullah of Hami Asto Productions, who arranges shoots in the Jammu and Kashmir regions, told IANS that two to three Bollywood films and one big Telugu movie were slated to arrive over the next few months for shooting. He said, “There were some big projects in line — two to three Bollywood films and one Telugu movie. Now, we can’t say if that will happen because of the disturbed environment. Maybe they will push the schedule or maybe they will go to a different location.”

“We just wrapped up the shoot of the Telugu film ‘Venky Mama’, which stars Venkatesh. They shot in Pahalgam and Sonmarg. The month-long shot was wrapped up in June. One big Bollywood film was supposed to start shooting in August-end. They all are stuck now,” added Abdullah.

On the loss to the respective producers, film and trade expert Girish Johar told IANS, “There is some unrest and confusion going on in Jammu and Kashmir. The government has taken measures. So, all the planned shoots in the region will be delayed for a while. It will not have much negative impact in terms of cost escalation, because productions of these films were yet to start. The cost would have been a problem had they started shooting in Kashmir, and were forced to come back. Now, there will be a nominal increase in cost.”

The Home Minister Amit Shah announced on Monday in Rajya Sabha that the government has decided to revoke the article which grants Jammu and Kashmir a special status. The central government also announced that that the region will be split into two Union Territories -- Jammu and Kashmir, Ladakh.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Looks like Kashmir will be out of bounds for filmmakers in the following months to come after the repeal of Article 370 that has led to the region falling in a state of uncertainty.

Looks like Kashmir will be out of bounds for filmmakers in the following months to come after the repeal of Article 370 that has led to the region falling in a state of uncertainty. Prominent actors like Sanjay Dutt, Sidharth Malhotra and Alia Bhatt among others were scheduled to shoot in the state but their plans will now have to be put on hold. Sidharth who will next be seen in ‘Jabariya Jodi’ with Parineeti Chopra, was supposed to start work on Captain Vikram Batra’s biopic ‘Shershaah’ that was supposed to be shot in the Valley. The film is directed by Vishnu Varadhan is written by Sandeep Srivastava as the movie is backed by Karan Johar’s Dharma Productions. The shooting schedule has so far been pushed with no update on the new date. Alia Bhatt was also supposed to start work in the Valley for her film ‘Sadak 2’ which had to have an important segment shot there. The film will have Sanjay Dutt, Alia Bhatt and Makarand Deshpande, who essays the role of a godman in the movie. ‘Sadak 2’ will have Mahesh Bhatt on the directorial seat. The shooting is on hold for now. Apart from these, there were supposed to be a couple of other films that were to start shooting in the state of Jammu and Kashmir. Line producer Md. Abdullah of Hami Asto Productions, who arranges shoots in the Jammu and Kashmir regions, told IANS that two to three Bollywood films and one big Telugu movie were slated to arrive over the next few months for shooting. He said, “There were some big projects in line — two to three Bollywood films and one Telugu movie. Now, we can’t say if that will happen because of the disturbed environment. Maybe they will push the schedule or maybe they will go to a different location.” “We just wrapped up the shoot of the Telugu film ‘Venky Mama’, which stars Venkatesh. They shot in Pahalgam and Sonmarg. The month-long shot was wrapped up in June. One big Bollywood film was supposed to start shooting in August-end. They all are stuck now,” added Abdullah. On the loss to the respective producers, film and trade expert Girish Johar told IANS, “There is some unrest and confusion going on in Jammu and Kashmir. The government has taken measures. So, all the planned shoots in the region will be delayed for a while. It will not have much negative impact in terms of cost escalation, because productions of these films were yet to start. The cost would have been a problem had they started shooting in Kashmir, and were forced to come back. Now, there will be a nominal increase in cost.” The Home Minister Amit Shah announced on Monday in Rajya Sabha that the government has decided to revoke the article which grants Jammu and Kashmir a special status. The central government also announced that that the region will be split into two Union Territories -- Jammu and Kashmir, Ladakh.

Article 370 revoked: Alia Bhatt, Sanjay Dutt's films to be shot in Kashmir to get delayed

UAE Responds to India's move to revoke Article 370 and said that it will improve the confidence of people in governance and will improve security.

UAE responds to India's move to revoke Article 370

Congress whip in Rajya Sabha resigns to protest party's stand on Article 370. To know more watch the video.

Congress Outfoxed over article 370

What is Congress stand on Article 370? Watch video to know more.

What is Congress stand on Article 370?

The Modi government has scrapped the article 370 of the Indian constitution except clause 1 of the same. Now the Jammu and Kashmir would be an Union territory with legislative assembly like Delhi and Puducherry. And here's how the new map of J&K will look like now.

Modi govt redraws line, this is how the map of J&K will look like now

Indians welcome govt's historical decision, hails J&K reorganisation bill. Watch video to know more.

Indians welcome govt's historical decision, hails J&K reorganisation bill

Article 370, which granted special status to the state of Jammu and Kashmir (J&amp;K), has been removed by a Presidential Order.

Home Minister Amit Shah also presented a J&amp;K Reorganisation Bill, through which the state has been bifurcated into two Union Territories — Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh. With this, Article 35A has also been annulled, which was discriminatory against non-residents and women of J&amp;K.&nbsp;

With bigger mandate come bigger expectations. The right-wing supporters of BJP and RSS expected the Modi 2.0 government to walk the talk on Uniform Civil Code, Article 370, Article 35A, Ram Temple, Hindu rashtra, and other ideological issues. Through this, the BJP has fulfilled one of its long-standing promise.

In its 2019 poll manifesto, it had mentioned, “We reiterate our position since the time of the Jan Sangh to the abrogation of Article 370.” Through this act, it consolidates its core vote bank, who have stood by the party through thick and thin. It establishes the one nation, one constitution principle.&nbsp;

As BJP MP Swapan Dasgupta put it in Rajya Sabha, the repeal of Article 370 establishes the political sovereignty of the Indian Parliament to whole of India without making any exception for J&amp;K.&nbsp;

The stunned opposition was clueless and ill-prepared despite these rumours doing the rounds for the last few days. Congress leader P Chidambaram called the move a “constitutional monstrosity” and warned other states against “future moves to dismember them”.

The move has the potential of making local political parties irrelevant. The National Conference (NC) and People’s Democratic Party (PDP) have opposed the move. The Abdullahs and Muftis (dynasts) have been ruling the state for decades since Independence and exploited the local sentiments for their political benefit.&nbsp;

On expected lines, Omar Abdullah termed the decision as disastrous, illegal and unconstitutional. He alleged that the Government of India resorted to deceit and stealth and this is an aggression on the people of J&amp;K.

Mehbooba Mufti, meanwhile, termed it as the darkest day in Indian democracy. She slammed the unilateral decision of the Government of India to scrap Article 370, which will make India an occupational force in J&amp;K.&nbsp;

Both these leaders have been put under house arrest. PDP has been accused of being soft on separatists even during the brief rule of PDP-BJP combine in the state. There is a risk that since the PDP and NC face an existential threat, they could join hands with separatist groups to fan unrest in the Valley. It could also force the two Valley parties to form an alliance in state elections to take on the BJP.

Many critics feel that politically this move amounts to an assault on the Muslim identity of J&amp;K. The RSS has always believed that the only way to resolve Kashmir issue is through a sweeping demographic change in the state, facilitated by the integration of the Valley with the rest of country.&nbsp;

Political parties across the spectrum, including the BSP, BJD, YSRCP, AAP, TRS and the TDP supported the repeal of Article 370. It is a good sign for the Indian democracy and highlights the fact that on issues of national interest, parties cutting across political spectrum and irrespective of ideology, can come together and work unitedly. Arvind Kejriwal hoped it would bring peace in the Kashmir Valley.&nbsp;

JD (U)’s opposition, though, is a cause of concern for the BJP, especially with the Bihar Assembly elections due next year. The party earlier opposed the Triple Talaq Bill as well. JD (U) is not part of the Union Cabinet and shares a love-hate relationship with the BJP. There are also rumours that Nitish could go back to Lalu’s RJD, which could weaken BJP’s chances in Bihar. After reorganisation, de-limitation could be the next thing that the BJP comes up with. Kashmir has 46, Jammu 37 and Ladakh four seats, implying that the party securing a majority in the Valley has been dominating the political scene in the state.&nbsp;

The people of Jammu and Ladakh have for years, alleged discrimination and lack of development. In terms of area as well as voter population per seat, Jammu is much bigger compared to the Kashmir Valley.

As per reports, de-limitation could increase seats of Jammu by 10-15, bringing it at least on par with Kashmir. Reservation of seats for the SC/ST community is also likely to be introduced.&nbsp;

BJP hopes to sweep the Jammu region, as and when elections are held, and instal a first non-Kashmiri and Hindu chief minister in the state. Even if PDP and NC join forces and win the elections, the issue is that the chief minister of a Union Territory doesn’t enjoy the same powers as other states. In Delhi, Kejriwal has been fighting for absolute powers and alleging how the BJP has been meddling in the affairs of the state through the Lieutenant Governor. So, the old days of Abdullahs and Muftis may never return. The BJP at the Centre will have the reins of power of the state.

In the recent past, the BJP has got UAPA/RTI Amendment Bill and the Triple Talaq Bill passed in the House of Elders despite not having a majority. The J&amp;K Reorganisation Bill was introduced first in Rajya Sabha and not in Lok Sabha. This reflects the BJP’s confidence after winning a brute majority in May, using far superior floor management skills.&nbsp;

It also shows that India is now not only Congress-mukt, but also opposition-mukt. The BJP has now occupied the dominant position once held by the Congress in India’s political space.&nbsp;

Now, over to courts as the decision is likely to be challenged!

(This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the <a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-game-up-for-abdullahs-muftis-2779226">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)&nbsp;

Article 370, which granted special status to the state of Jammu and Kashmir (J&K), has been removed by a Presidential Order. Home Minister Amit Shah also presented a J&K Reorganisation Bill, through which the state has been bifurcated into two Union Territories — Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh.

Article 370, which granted special status to the state of Jammu and Kashmir (J&K), has been removed by a Presidential Order. Home Minister Amit Shah also presented a J&K Reorganisation Bill, through which the state has been bifurcated into two Union Territories — Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh. With this, Article 35A has also been annulled, which was discriminatory against non-residents and women of J&K. With bigger mandate come bigger expectations. The right-wing supporters of BJP and RSS expected the Modi 2.0 government to walk the talk on Uniform Civil Code, Article 370, Article 35A, Ram Temple, Hindu rashtra, and other ideological issues. Through this, the BJP has fulfilled one of its long-standing promise. In its 2019 poll manifesto, it had mentioned, “We reiterate our position since the time of the Jan Sangh to the abrogation of Article 370.” Through this act, it consolidates its core vote bank, who have stood by the party through thick and thin. It establishes the one nation, one constitution principle. As BJP MP Swapan Dasgupta put it in Rajya Sabha, the repeal of Article 370 establishes the political sovereignty of the Indian Parliament to whole of India without making any exception for J&K. The stunned opposition was clueless and ill-prepared despite these rumours doing the rounds for the last few days. Congress leader P Chidambaram called the move a “constitutional monstrosity” and warned other states against “future moves to dismember them”. The move has the potential of making local political parties irrelevant. The National Conference (NC) and People’s Democratic Party (PDP) have opposed the move. The Abdullahs and Muftis (dynasts) have been ruling the state for decades since Independence and exploited the local sentiments for their political benefit. On expected lines, Omar Abdullah termed the decision as disastrous, illegal and unconstitutional. He alleged that the Government of India resorted to deceit and stealth and this is an aggression on the people of J&K. Mehbooba Mufti, meanwhile, termed it as the darkest day in Indian democracy. She slammed the unilateral decision of the Government of India to scrap Article 370, which will make India an occupational force in J&K. Both these leaders have been put under house arrest. PDP has been accused of being soft on separatists even during the brief rule of PDP-BJP combine in the state. There is a risk that since the PDP and NC face an existential threat, they could join hands with separatist groups to fan unrest in the Valley. It could also force the two Valley parties to form an alliance in state elections to take on the BJP. Many critics feel that politically this move amounts to an assault on the Muslim identity of J&K. The RSS has always believed that the only way to resolve Kashmir issue is through a sweeping demographic change in the state, facilitated by the integration of the Valley with the rest of country. Political parties across the spectrum, including the BSP, BJD, YSRCP, AAP, TRS and the TDP supported the repeal of Article 370. It is a good sign for the Indian democracy and highlights the fact that on issues of national interest, parties cutting across political spectrum and irrespective of ideology, can come together and work unitedly. Arvind Kejriwal hoped it would bring peace in the Kashmir Valley. JD (U)’s opposition, though, is a cause of concern for the BJP, especially with the Bihar Assembly elections due next year. The party earlier opposed the Triple Talaq Bill as well. JD (U) is not part of the Union Cabinet and shares a love-hate relationship with the BJP. There are also rumours that Nitish could go back to Lalu’s RJD, which could weaken BJP’s chances in Bihar. After reorganisation, de-limitation could be the next thing that the BJP comes up with. Kashmir has 46, Jammu 37 and Ladakh four seats, implying that the party securing a majority in the Valley has been dominating the political scene in the state. The people of Jammu and Ladakh have for years, alleged discrimination and lack of development. In terms of area as well as voter population per seat, Jammu is much bigger compared to the Kashmir Valley. As per reports, de-limitation could increase seats of Jammu by 10-15, bringing it at least on par with Kashmir. Reservation of seats for the SC/ST community is also likely to be introduced. BJP hopes to sweep the Jammu region, as and when elections are held, and instal a first non-Kashmiri and Hindu chief minister in the state. Even if PDP and NC join forces and win the elections, the issue is that the chief minister of a Union Territory doesn’t enjoy the same powers as other states. In Delhi, Kejriwal has been fighting for absolute powers and alleging how the BJP has been meddling in the affairs of the state through the Lieutenant Governor. So, the old days of Abdullahs and Muftis may never return. The BJP at the Centre will have the reins of power of the state. In the recent past, the BJP has got UAPA/RTI Amendment Bill and the Triple Talaq Bill passed in the House of Elders despite not having a majority. The J&K Reorganisation Bill was introduced first in Rajya Sabha and not in Lok Sabha. This reflects the BJP’s confidence after winning a brute majority in May, using far superior floor management skills. It also shows that India is now not only Congress-mukt, but also opposition-mukt. The BJP has now occupied the dominant position once held by the Congress in India’s political space. Now, over to courts as the decision is likely to be challenged! (This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

Game up for Abdullahs, Muftis

Rahul Gandhi finally breaks his silence and reacts over J&k reorganistaion bill that yesterday passed in Rajya Sabha and same introduced in the Lok Sabha today. He says that 'Nation made by people, not plots of land'

Rahul Gandhi finally reacts to J&k bill; says 'Nation made by people, not plots of land'

A day after India's upper house of Parliament passed the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/live-jammu-kashmir-situation-section-144-imposed-security-tightened-in-state-240732">Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Bill</a>, 2019 which led to the scrapping of Article 370, home minister Amit Shah presented a resolution in the lower house of Parliament.

On Monday, the Rajya Sabha had passed the bill on J&amp;K with a total of 125 votes in favour with 61 members voting against it.&nbsp;

The government on Monday had announced the bifurcation of the state of Jammu and Kashmir and revoked Article 370 which gave special status to J&amp;K. According to the new bill, while Jammu and Kashmir will be a Union Territory with a legislature, Ladakh has been converted into a separate Union Territory sans legislature. The Union Territory of Ladakh will be administered by Delhi.

Watch Video:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/govt-oppositon-spar-over-jk-reorganisation-bill-ls-to-shorty-vote-on-article-370-241039/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

During another heated debate in the Lok Sabha, Amit Shah said Jammu and Kashmir is an integral part of India&nbsp;while adding that Parliament has the right to make laws on Jammu &amp; Kashmir.

"Jammu &amp; Kashmir is an integral part of Union of India. Kashmir ki seema mein PoK bhi aata hai(PoK also comes under Kashmir border...Jaan de denge iske liye! (We will give our lives for it)," Amit Shah said in Lok Sabha.

"Main sadan mein jab jab Jammu and Kashmir rajya bola hoon tab tab Pakistan occupied Kashmir aur Aksai Chin dono iska hissa hain, ye baat hai.(Whenever I have spoken about Jammu and Kashmir, PoK and Aksai Chin both have been a part of it, that is what!," he added.

The revoking of Article 370 was supported by several parties in the Rajya Sabha on Monday including Chandrababu Naidu-Telugu Desam Party (TDP), Mayawati's BSP, Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal's AAP, AIADMK, AGP, Akali Dal and RPI.

However, the Congress, CPM, CPI, DMK, SP, IUML and KC(M) voted against the resolution as the JD(U), TMC and NCP walked out the Rajya Sabha.

A day after India's upper house of Parliament passed the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Bill, 2019 which led to the scrapping of Article 370, home minister Amit Shah presented a resolution in the lower house of Parliament.

A day after India's upper house of Parliament passed the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Bill, 2019 which led to the scrapping of Article 370, home minister Amit Shah presented a resolution in the lower house of Parliament. On Monday, the Rajya Sabha had passed the bill on J&K with a total of 125 votes in favour with 61 members voting against it. The government on Monday had announced the bifurcation of the state of Jammu and Kashmir and revoked Article 370 which gave special status to J&K. According to the new bill, while Jammu and Kashmir will be a Union Territory with a legislature, Ladakh has been converted into a separate Union Territory sans legislature. The Union Territory of Ladakh will be administered by Delhi. Watch Video: During another heated debate in the Lok Sabha, Amit Shah said Jammu and Kashmir is an integral part of India while adding that Parliament has the right to make laws on Jammu & Kashmir. "Jammu & Kashmir is an integral part of Union of India. Kashmir ki seema mein PoK bhi aata hai(PoK also comes under Kashmir border...Jaan de denge iske liye! (We will give our lives for it)," Amit Shah said in Lok Sabha. "Main sadan mein jab jab Jammu and Kashmir rajya bola hoon tab tab Pakistan occupied Kashmir aur Aksai Chin dono iska hissa hain, ye baat hai.(Whenever I have spoken about Jammu and Kashmir, PoK and Aksai Chin both have been a part of it, that is what!," he added. The revoking of Article 370 was supported by several parties in the Rajya Sabha on Monday including Chandrababu Naidu-Telugu Desam Party (TDP), Mayawati's BSP, Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal's AAP, AIADMK, AGP, Akali Dal and RPI. However, the Congress, CPM, CPI, DMK, SP, IUML and KC(M) voted against the resolution as the JD(U), TMC and NCP walked out the Rajya Sabha.

PoK and Aksai Chin also part of Jammu and Kashmir: Amit Shah in Lok Sabha

General Officer Commanding in Chief, Northern Command Lt Gen Ranbir Singh on Tuesday chaired a meeting of the Core Group of Intelligence and Security agencies to review the "<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pok-and-aksai-chin-also-part-of-jammu-and-kashmir-amit-shah-in-lok-sabha-241012">operational readiness in Jammu and Kashmir</a>".

"Necessary security arrangements have been put in place for ensuring peace and security,"&nbsp;Ranbir Singh said.

Earlier, Jammu and Kashmir Governor Satya Pal Malik had held a meeting in Raj Bhavan and reviewed the prevailing security and law and order situation in the state, in the aftermath of developments in the Parliament relating to Jammu and Kashmir.

The governor's meeting took place as former chief ministers of Jammu and Kashmir Mehbooba Mufti and Omar Abdullah, who were put under house arrest on Sunday night, were detained hours after resolution on scrapping of Article 370 was passed in the Rajya Sabha.

The Chief Secretary informed the Governor that there is no dearth of essential commodities in the Valley and there is sufficient stocking of the same for over three months.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/army-commander-chairs-core-group-meeting-on-jk-in-srinagar-241034/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo">The development comes as Union home minister Amit Shah presented the J&amp;K bill in Lok Sabha today after the Rajya Sabha on Monday passed the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Bill stated the bifurcation of the state of Jammu and Kashmir and revoking Article 370 and Article 35A.</div>

''PoK is part of Jammu and Kashmir,'' Amit Shah said while moving the resolution in Lok Sabha.

General Officer Commanding in Chief, Northern Command Lt Gen Ranbir Singh on Tuesday chaired a meeting of the Core Group of Intelligence and Security agencies to review the "operational readiness in Jammu and Kashmir".

General Officer Commanding in Chief, Northern Command Lt Gen Ranbir Singh on Tuesday chaired a meeting of the Core Group of Intelligence and Security agencies to review the "operational readiness in Jammu and Kashmir". "Necessary security arrangements have been put in place for ensuring peace and security," Ranbir Singh said. Earlier, Jammu and Kashmir Governor Satya Pal Malik had held a meeting in Raj Bhavan and reviewed the prevailing security and law and order situation in the state, in the aftermath of developments in the Parliament relating to Jammu and Kashmir. The governor's meeting took place as former chief ministers of Jammu and Kashmir Mehbooba Mufti and Omar Abdullah, who were put under house arrest on Sunday night, were detained hours after resolution on scrapping of Article 370 was passed in the Rajya Sabha. The Chief Secretary informed the Governor that there is no dearth of essential commodities in the Valley and there is sufficient stocking of the same for over three months. The development comes as Union home minister Amit Shah presented the J&K bill in Lok Sabha today after the Rajya Sabha on Monday passed the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Bill stated the bifurcation of the state of Jammu and Kashmir and revoking Article 370 and Article 35A. ''PoK is part of Jammu and Kashmir,'' Amit Shah said while moving the resolution in Lok Sabha.

Army commander Ranbir Singh reviews operational readiness in Jammu and Kashmir

A day after the Rajya Sabha passed the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Bill, the same was tabled by Union Home Minister Amit Shah in the Lok Sabha on Tuesday.

Govt, Oppositon spar over J&K reorganisation bill; LS to shorty vote on Article 370

After India's&nbsp;home minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/live-jammu-kashmir-situation-section-144-imposed-security-tightened-in-state-240732">Amit Shah announced the revoking of Article 370</a> and repealing of&nbsp;Article 35A of the Constitution of India which gave special status to Jammu and Kashmir and its residents,&nbsp;former finance minister Arun Jaitley congratulated Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Amit Shah for "correcting a historic blunder".

''A historical wrong has been undone today. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/what-is-article-35a-heres-all-you-need-to-know-240752">Article 35A</a> came through the back door without following the procedure under Article 368 of the Constitution of India. It had to go. My compliments to the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi ji and the Home Minister Shri Amit Shah for correcting a historical blunder,'' Arun Jaitley tweeted.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
My complements to the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi ji and the Home Minister Shri Amit Shah for correcting a historical blunder.
— Arun Jaitley (@arunjaitley) <a href="https://twitter.com/arunjaitley/status/1158269079964094464?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 5, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

''The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jammu-and-kashmir-now-a-union-territory-ladakh-to-be-administered-from-delhi-as-ut-240769">decision of the government</a> will help the people of J&amp;K the most," he added.

"More investment, more industry, more private educational institutions, more jobs and more revenue. While <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/article-370-revoked-from-jammu-and-kashmir-all-you-need-to-know-240772">Article 370</a> and Article 35A decision benefits the residents of J&amp;K the most, the Kashmir regional leaders feel that they will not be able to whip up the fake issue of ‘sentiment vs. benefit’ to the people,'' Jaitley said in a series of tweets.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
While the Article 370 and Article 35A decision benefits the residents of J&amp;K the most, the Kashmir regional leaders feel that they will not be able to whip up the fake issue of ‘sentiment vs. benefit’ to the people.
— Arun Jaitley (@arunjaitley) <a href="https://twitter.com/arunjaitley/status/1158269068861792257?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 5, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Former Minister of External Affairs Sushma Swaraj also hailed the decision.

''A bold and historic decision. We salute our Great India - one India,'' Swaraj tweeted.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
बहुत साहसिक और ऐतिहासिक निर्णय. श्रेष्ठ भारत - एक भारत का अभिनन्दन. 
A bold and historic decision. We salute our Great India - one India.
— Sushma Swaraj (@SushmaSwaraj) <a href="https://twitter.com/SushmaSwaraj/status/1158268717316231168?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 5, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Meanwhile, reports said PM Modi is likey to speak to the nation on the Jammu and Kashmir situation on August 7.

After India's home minister Amit Shah announced the revoking of Article 370 and repealing of Article 35A of the Constitution of India which gave special status to Jammu and Kashmir and its residents, former finance minister Arun Jaitley congratulated Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Amit Shah for "correcting a historic blunder".

After India's home minister Amit Shah announced the revoking of Article 370 and repealing of Article 35A of the Constitution of India which gave special status to Jammu and Kashmir and its residents, former finance minister Arun Jaitley congratulated Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Amit Shah for "correcting a historic blunder". ''A historical wrong has been undone today. Article 35A came through the back door without following the procedure under Article 368 of the Constitution of India. It had to go. My compliments to the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi ji and the Home Minister Shri Amit Shah for correcting a historical blunder,'' Arun Jaitley tweeted. My complements to the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi ji and the Home Minister Shri Amit Shah for correcting a historical blunder. — Arun Jaitley (@arunjaitley) August 5, 2019 × ''The decision of the government will help the people of J&K the most," he added. "More investment, more industry, more private educational institutions, more jobs and more revenue. While Article 370 and Article 35A decision benefits the residents of J&K the most, the Kashmir regional leaders feel that they will not be able to whip up the fake issue of ‘sentiment vs. benefit’ to the people,'' Jaitley said in a series of tweets. While the Article 370 and Article 35A decision benefits the residents of J&K the most, the Kashmir regional leaders feel that they will not be able to whip up the fake issue of ‘sentiment vs. benefit’ to the people. — Arun Jaitley (@arunjaitley) August 5, 2019 × Former Minister of External Affairs Sushma Swaraj also hailed the decision. ''A bold and historic decision. We salute our Great India - one India,'' Swaraj tweeted. बहुत साहसिक और ऐतिहासिक निर्णय. श्रेष्ठ भारत - एक भारत का अभिनन्दन. A bold and historic decision. We salute our Great India - one India. — Sushma Swaraj (@SushmaSwaraj) August 5, 2019 × Meanwhile, reports said PM Modi is likey to speak to the nation on the Jammu and Kashmir situation on August 7.

Historical wrong has been undone today, says Arun Jaitley on J&K situation

The Indian govermment on Monday announced the bifurcation of the state of Jammu and Kashmir. While Jammu and Kashmir will be a Union Territory with a legislature, Ladakh has been converted into a separate Uniion Territory but without a legislature. The Union Territory of Ladakh will be administered by Delhi.

Home Minister Amit Shah addressed the Upper House (Rajya Sabha) of Parliament where he announced the abrogation of Article 370 and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/what-is-article-35a-heres-all-you-need-to-know-240752">Article 35A</a> of the Constitution of India which gave special status to the state and its residents and tabled a resolution for the same.

A notification issued by the government shortly after Shah's announcement was signed by President of India Ram Nath Kovind said the state was being restructured.

The Constitution (Application to Jammu and Kashmir) Order, 2019 came into force immediately. The order will supersede the Constitution (Application to Jammu and Kashmir) Order, 1954 as amended from time to time. The notification also made clear that all the provisions of the Constitution as amended from time to time, shall apply in relation to the state of Jammu and Kashmir and the exceptions and modifications subject to which they shall so apply.

Watch: What Home Minister Amit Shah said in Parliament

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/article-370-for-special-status-on-jammu-and-kashmir-to-be-abrogated-amit-shah-in-rajya-sabha-240760/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

It also added a clause (4) to Article 367 which said, "(4) For the purposes of this Constitution as it applies in relation to the State of Jammu and Kashmir -(a) references to this Constitution or to the provisions thereof shall be construed as references to the Constitution or the provisions thereof as applied in relation to the said State; (b) references to the person for the time being recognised by the President on the recommendation of the Legislative Assembly of the State as the Sadar-i-Riyasat of Jammu and Kashmir, acting on the advice of the Council of Ministers of the State for the time being in office, shall be construed as references to the Governor of Jammu and Kashmir; (c) references to the Government of the said State shall be construed as including references to the Governor of Jammu and Kashmir acting on the advice of his Council of Ministers; and (d) in proviso to clause (3) of Article 370 of this Constitution, the expression 'Constituent Assembly of the State referred to in clause (2)' shall read 'Legislative Assembly of the State'."

The Indian govermment on Monday announced the bifurcation of the state of Jammu and Kashmir. While Jammu and Kashmir will be a Union Territory with a legislature, Ladakh has been converted into a separate Uniion Territory but without a legislature.

The Indian govermment on Monday announced the bifurcation of the state of Jammu and Kashmir. While Jammu and Kashmir will be a Union Territory with a legislature, Ladakh has been converted into a separate Uniion Territory but without a legislature. The Union Territory of Ladakh will be administered by Delhi. Home Minister Amit Shah addressed the Upper House (Rajya Sabha) of Parliament where he announced the abrogation of Article 370 and Article 35A of the Constitution of India which gave special status to the state and its residents and tabled a resolution for the same. A notification issued by the government shortly after Shah's announcement was signed by President of India Ram Nath Kovind said the state was being restructured. The Constitution (Application to Jammu and Kashmir) Order, 2019 came into force immediately. The order will supersede the Constitution (Application to Jammu and Kashmir) Order, 1954 as amended from time to time. The notification also made clear that all the provisions of the Constitution as amended from time to time, shall apply in relation to the state of Jammu and Kashmir and the exceptions and modifications subject to which they shall so apply. Watch: What Home Minister Amit Shah said in Parliament It also added a clause (4) to Article 367 which said, "(4) For the purposes of this Constitution as it applies in relation to the State of Jammu and Kashmir -(a) references to this Constitution or to the provisions thereof shall be construed as references to the Constitution or the provisions thereof as applied in relation to the said State; (b) references to the person for the time being recognised by the President on the recommendation of the Legislative Assembly of the State as the Sadar-i-Riyasat of Jammu and Kashmir, acting on the advice of the Council of Ministers of the State for the time being in office, shall be construed as references to the Governor of Jammu and Kashmir; (c) references to the Government of the said State shall be construed as including references to the Governor of Jammu and Kashmir acting on the advice of his Council of Ministers; and (d) in proviso to clause (3) of Article 370 of this Constitution, the expression 'Constituent Assembly of the State referred to in clause (2)' shall read 'Legislative Assembly of the State'."

Jammu and Kashmir now a Union Territory, Ladakh to be administered from Delhi as UT

In a big announcement, Home Minister Amit Shah proposed to remove Article 370 that grants Jammu and Kashmir special status.

Article 370 for special status on Jammu and Kashmir to be abrogated: Amit Shah in Rajya Sabha

Speaking in the Rajya Sabha, Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Monday announced that&nbsp;Article 35A will be scrapped.&nbsp;

Here is all you need to know about Article 35A:

Article 35A is based on the terms negotiated between Jammu and Kashmir's Sheikh Abdullah and the then Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru in 1949.

The article was inserted into the constitution through a Presidential order in 1954, instead of a parliamentary amendment under article 368.

Article 35A empowers the Jammu and Kashmir government to define the state's permanent residents and to grant them privileges and special rights. Only permanent residents can purchase land and property, settle permanently in the region, and get government jobs, scholarships in the state.

It excludes outsiders from acquiring property and getting benefits including government jobs and scholarships in the state-run educational institutions.&nbsp;

According to Article 35A, women who marry a non-permanent resident lose their "state subject" status. However, in 2002, the Jammu and Kashmir high court held that a woman marrying a non-permanent resident will not lose her rights -- but children born to such a woman will not have succession rights. 
&nbsp;

Speaking in the Rajya Sabha, Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Monday announced that Article 35A will be scrapped. Here is all you need to know about Article 35A: Article 35A is based on the terms negotiated between Jammu and Kashmir's Sheikh Abdullah and the then Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru in 1949.

Speaking in the Rajya Sabha, Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Monday announced that Article 35A will be scrapped. Here is all you need to know about Article 35A: Article 35A is based on the terms negotiated between Jammu and Kashmir's Sheikh Abdullah and the then Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru in 1949. The article was inserted into the constitution through a Presidential order in 1954, instead of a parliamentary amendment under article 368. Article 35A empowers the Jammu and Kashmir government to define the state's permanent residents and to grant them privileges and special rights. Only permanent residents can purchase land and property, settle permanently in the region, and get government jobs, scholarships in the state. It excludes outsiders from acquiring property and getting benefits including government jobs and scholarships in the state-run educational institutions. According to Article 35A, women who marry a non-permanent resident lose their "state subject" status. However, in 2002, the Jammu and Kashmir high court held that a woman marrying a non-permanent resident will not lose her rights -- but children born to such a woman will not have succession rights.

What is Article 35A? Here's all you need to know

How To View The Government's Decision To Abrogate Article 370

Wion Edit: Interpreting India's article 370 decision

Home Minister Amit Shah on Monday congratulated Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his "unwavering commitment" towards ensuring the unity and integrity of the country.

"Today, Modi govt has corrected a long-overdue historic wrong. I congratulate PM @narendramodiji for his unwavering commitment towards ensuring unity and integrity of our motherland. This historic decision will usher in a new dawn of peace and development in J&amp;K and Ladakh region," Shah tweeted shortly after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/the-road-ahead-whats-next-for-jammu-and-kashmir-after-bifurcation-revocation-of-articles-370-35a-240930">The Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Bill, 2019</a> was passed by Rajya Sabha.

The Home Minister stressed that this decision will ensure that there will no more be a system of "do nishan, do samvidhan" in Jammu and Kashmir.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/article-370-responsible-for-corruption-poverty-underdevelopment-in-jammu-and-kashmir-amit-shah-240865">Article 370</a> of the Constitution that gave special status to Jammu and Kashmir was on Monday scrapped, along with Article 35 (A), as Rajya Sabha passed a momentous bill that bifurcates the state into two Union Territories in far-reaching decisions taken by the BJP-led central government.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Today, Modi govt has corrected a long overdue historic wrong. 
 
I congratulate PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> ji for his unwavering commitment towards ensuring unity &amp; integrity of our motherland. 
 
This historic decision will usher in a new dawn of peace &amp; development in J&amp;K and Ladakh region.
— Amit Shah (@AmitShah) <a href="https://twitter.com/AmitShah/status/1158386052597370880?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 5, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

A resolution removing the special status of the state under Article 370 was approved by the Rajya Sabha on Monday with Home Minister Amit Shah saying the constitutional provision was the "root cause of terrorism" in the state, and the Modi government was committed to making the state the most progressive in the country.

The Jammu &amp; Kashmir (Reorganisation) Bill, 2019, which strips Jammu and Kashmir's status of a state and converts it into a Union Territory with legislature and carving out Ladakh region as a UT without legislature, was passed in a division pressed by the opposition with 125 votes in favour and 61 against, and an NCP member abstained.

After the passage of the bill, Prime Minister Narendra Modi went up to Shah and congratulated him.

Taking opposition by surprise, the reorganisation bill and the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jammu-and-kashmir-reorganisation-bill-passed-in-rajya-sabha-with-125-members-in-favour-240893">resolution to repeal Article 370</a> were tabled in the House amidst uproarious scenes with major opposition parties stiffly resisting it. The opposition complained that they had not got advance information about the bill.

Shortly after Shah tabled a resolution to this effect in Rajya Sabha, President Ram Nath Kovind came out with a notification - The Constitution (Application to Jammu and Kashmir) Order, 2019 that will come into force immediately.

Responding to concerns of members about the bifurcation of the state into Union Territories of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh, Shah said the government had no objection to restoring statehood once the situation in the militancy-torn state gets normalised.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Home Minister <a href="https://twitter.com/AmitShah?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AmitShah</a> Ji’s speech in the Rajya Sabha was extensive and insightful. It accurately highlighted the monumental injustices of the past and coherently presented our vision for the sisters and brothers of J&amp;K. Do hear. <a href="https://t.co/ho7PPzyz5w">https://t.co/ho7PPzyz5w</a>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1158383468927045632?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 5, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

"I want to assure the House that whenever normal situation returns, right time comes, we have no objection in making it a state," Shah said amidst thumping of desks by the ruling side members.

Shah said Article 370 was the biggest obstacle to ending terrorism and due to it, democracy never took root in Jammu and Kashmir, corruption flourished, poverty sustained and no socio-economic infrastructure could come up.

Shah said Article 370 holds no benefits for the youth of the state and is discriminatory on the basis of gender, class, caste and place of origin.

He also said the provision was temporary and asked if it should have taken 70 years to repeal it. "It only required political will, which only the present government had," he said.

"Now, the moment this resolution is passed and Article 370 is removed, each child would get right of education and each patient would get free healthcare under Ayushman Bharat. It has to go in the larger interest of the people of Jammu and Kashmir," he said.

He said the bill was historic and politics of vote bank has looted the youth of the state for over 70 years. "Politics of religion must be avoided at all costs. Article 370 is equally harmful to people of all religions," he said.

Referring to Article 35 (A), Shah said daughters of the state marrying outside the state lose their rights to the property. "It is so discriminatory to the women and their children."

He said the path to a solution to all the problems of Kashmir goes through the repealing of Article 370.

Shah said that post the repeal of Article 370, doors to private investment would be opened, which would, in turn, increase the potential for development there. "Increased investments would lead to increased job creation and further betterment of socio-economic infrastructure in the state."

Remembering the sacrifice of civilians and soldiers, who lost their lives during 1989-2018, Shah said had Article 370 not been there, these people wouldn't have lost their lives.

He said Article 370 impedes people from outside the state to do business there. "Absence of economic competition has prevented development and corruption flourished.

Land prices are at rock bottom because no one can buy land there. No industry, including tourism, is allowed to flourish there. People remain poor in perpetuity despite the presence of abundant economic opportunities for the local populace," he said.

"We want to embrace the youth of Jammu and Kashmir and give them flourishing opportunities for employment. Even a separate bill for reservation for economically backward classes would not be required if the resolution is passed in both houses as the provision will get automatically applied to Jammu and Kashmir, as in rest of India".

Shah said there was no need to amend the constitution in repealing Article 370 and under Article 370(3), there is a provision that the President, on the recommendation of the Parliament, has the power to amend or cease the implementation of Article 370, through a public notification.

In all, the House approved two resolutions and two bills.

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Home Minister Amit Shah on Monday congratulated Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his "unwavering commitment" towards ensuring the unity and integrity of the country.

Home Minister Amit Shah on Monday congratulated Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his "unwavering commitment" towards ensuring the unity and integrity of the country. "Today, Modi govt has corrected a long-overdue historic wrong. I congratulate PM @narendramodiji for his unwavering commitment towards ensuring unity and integrity of our motherland. This historic decision will usher in a new dawn of peace and development in J&K and Ladakh region," Shah tweeted shortly after The Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Bill, 2019 was passed by Rajya Sabha. The Home Minister stressed that this decision will ensure that there will no more be a system of "do nishan, do samvidhan" in Jammu and Kashmir. Article 370 of the Constitution that gave special status to Jammu and Kashmir was on Monday scrapped, along with Article 35 (A), as Rajya Sabha passed a momentous bill that bifurcates the state into two Union Territories in far-reaching decisions taken by the BJP-led central government. Today, Modi govt has corrected a long overdue historic wrong. I congratulate PM @narendramodi ji for his unwavering commitment towards ensuring unity & integrity of our motherland. This historic decision will usher in a new dawn of peace & development in J&K and Ladakh region. — Amit Shah (@AmitShah) August 5, 2019 × A resolution removing the special status of the state under Article 370 was approved by the Rajya Sabha on Monday with Home Minister Amit Shah saying the constitutional provision was the "root cause of terrorism" in the state, and the Modi government was committed to making the state the most progressive in the country. The Jammu & Kashmir (Reorganisation) Bill, 2019, which strips Jammu and Kashmir's status of a state and converts it into a Union Territory with legislature and carving out Ladakh region as a UT without legislature, was passed in a division pressed by the opposition with 125 votes in favour and 61 against, and an NCP member abstained. After the passage of the bill, Prime Minister Narendra Modi went up to Shah and congratulated him. Taking opposition by surprise, the reorganisation bill and the resolution to repeal Article 370 were tabled in the House amidst uproarious scenes with major opposition parties stiffly resisting it. The opposition complained that they had not got advance information about the bill. Shortly after Shah tabled a resolution to this effect in Rajya Sabha, President Ram Nath Kovind came out with a notification - The Constitution (Application to Jammu and Kashmir) Order, 2019 that will come into force immediately. Responding to concerns of members about the bifurcation of the state into Union Territories of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh, Shah said the government had no objection to restoring statehood once the situation in the militancy-torn state gets normalised. Home Minister @AmitShah Ji’s speech in the Rajya Sabha was extensive and insightful. It accurately highlighted the monumental injustices of the past and coherently presented our vision for the sisters and brothers of J&K. Do hear. https://t.co/ho7PPzyz5w — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 5, 2019 × "I want to assure the House that whenever normal situation returns, right time comes, we have no objection in making it a state," Shah said amidst thumping of desks by the ruling side members. Shah said Article 370 was the biggest obstacle to ending terrorism and due to it, democracy never took root in Jammu and Kashmir, corruption flourished, poverty sustained and no socio-economic infrastructure could come up. Shah said Article 370 holds no benefits for the youth of the state and is discriminatory on the basis of gender, class, caste and place of origin. He also said the provision was temporary and asked if it should have taken 70 years to repeal it. "It only required political will, which only the present government had," he said. "Now, the moment this resolution is passed and Article 370 is removed, each child would get right of education and each patient would get free healthcare under Ayushman Bharat. It has to go in the larger interest of the people of Jammu and Kashmir," he said. He said the bill was historic and politics of vote bank has looted the youth of the state for over 70 years. "Politics of religion must be avoided at all costs. Article 370 is equally harmful to people of all religions," he said. Referring to Article 35 (A), Shah said daughters of the state marrying outside the state lose their rights to the property. "It is so discriminatory to the women and their children." He said the path to a solution to all the problems of Kashmir goes through the repealing of Article 370. Shah said that post the repeal of Article 370, doors to private investment would be opened, which would, in turn, increase the potential for development there. "Increased investments would lead to increased job creation and further betterment of socio-economic infrastructure in the state." Remembering the sacrifice of civilians and soldiers, who lost their lives during 1989-2018, Shah said had Article 370 not been there, these people wouldn't have lost their lives. He said Article 370 impedes people from outside the state to do business there. "Absence of economic competition has prevented development and corruption flourished. Land prices are at rock bottom because no one can buy land there. No industry, including tourism, is allowed to flourish there. People remain poor in perpetuity despite the presence of abundant economic opportunities for the local populace," he said. "We want to embrace the youth of Jammu and Kashmir and give them flourishing opportunities for employment. Even a separate bill for reservation for economically backward classes would not be required if the resolution is passed in both houses as the provision will get automatically applied to Jammu and Kashmir, as in rest of India". Shah said there was no need to amend the constitution in repealing Article 370 and under Article 370(3), there is a provision that the President, on the recommendation of the Parliament, has the power to amend or cease the implementation of Article 370, through a public notification. In all, the House approved two resolutions and two bills.

Article 370 revoked: Shah lauds Modi for 'unwavering commitment' towards ensuring India's unity, integrity

What Can India Do Prevent Attempts By Third Parties To Interfere In Kashmir Issue

Gravitas: Time to Remove Article 35-A & Article 370?

The Rajya Sabha on Monday passed the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Bill that seeks to scrap Article 370 and Article 35A in Jammu and Kashmir, while also bifurcating the state into union territories of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh.

The Bill was passed by the Upper House through a voice vote, with 125 being in favour and 61 against it and there was also one abstention.

Now, the separate constitution of Jammu and Kashmir ceases to be in operation in the state, all provisions of Indian constitution will apply to J&amp;K. The&nbsp;constituent Assembly of J&amp;K will now read legislative assembly of Jammu and Kashmir.

Article 35(A), making a distinction between the permanent residents of&nbsp;Jammu and Kashmir&nbsp;and the outsiders, will also cease to have any effect.&nbsp;

This means that purchasing land and owning property by people, considered outsiders till now, would be possible. And any Indian citizen can now settle in Jammu and Kashmir.&nbsp;

The new union territory with legislature will now be at par with all other Indian states. The sectors of education and employment will open up to all Indians without any discrimination that article 35(A) brought utilizing the clause of permanent residents.

The separate&nbsp;Ranbir Penal Code&nbsp;(RPC) will give way to the Indian&nbsp;&nbsp;Penal Code&nbsp;(IPC)&nbsp;&nbsp;and&nbsp;Sadar-i-Riyasat&nbsp;will refer to Governor of J&amp;K.

The status of Jammu and Kashmir police cadre will be redefined. They may be included in Delhi, Andaman and Nicobar Islands Police Service (DANIPS) or may be granted a separate status.

Other important changes will be:

Dual citizenship of the state will end.

Any Indian citizen can buy property in Jammu and Kashmir.

Any Indian citizen can settle in Jammu and Kashmir.

Central quota laws in jobs &amp; education will apply to Jammu and Kashmir too.

The Rajya Sabha on Monday passed the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Bill that seeks to scrap Article 370 and Article 35A in Jammu and Kashmir, while also bifurcating the state into union territories of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh.

The Rajya Sabha on Monday passed the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Bill that seeks to scrap Article 370 and Article 35A in Jammu and Kashmir, while also bifurcating the state into union territories of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh. The Bill was passed by the Upper House through a voice vote, with 125 being in favour and 61 against it and there was also one abstention. Now, the separate constitution of Jammu and Kashmir ceases to be in operation in the state, all provisions of Indian constitution will apply to J&K. The constituent Assembly of J&K will now read legislative assembly of Jammu and Kashmir. Article 35(A), making a distinction between the permanent residents of Jammu and Kashmir and the outsiders, will also cease to have any effect. This means that purchasing land and owning property by people, considered outsiders till now, would be possible. And any Indian citizen can now settle in Jammu and Kashmir. The new union territory with legislature will now be at par with all other Indian states. The sectors of education and employment will open up to all Indians without any discrimination that article 35(A) brought utilizing the clause of permanent residents. The separate Ranbir Penal Code (RPC) will give way to the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and Sadar-i-Riyasat will refer to Governor of J&K. The status of Jammu and Kashmir police cadre will be redefined. They may be included in Delhi, Andaman and Nicobar Islands Police Service (DANIPS) or may be granted a separate status. Other important changes will be: Dual citizenship of the state will end. Any Indian citizen can buy property in Jammu and Kashmir. Any Indian citizen can settle in Jammu and Kashmir. Central quota laws in jobs & education will apply to Jammu and Kashmir too.

Article 370 scrapped: What will change in Jammu and Kashmir now?

Pakistan is a huddle after India decided to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/article-370-responsible-for-corruption-poverty-underdevelopment-in-jammu-and-kashmir-amit-shah-240865">remove special status to Jammu and Kashmir</a> and fully integrate it with the country's union.&nbsp;

While Pakistan's President&nbsp;Arif Alvi has called for a joint session of Parliament, its Army chief has summoned&nbsp;Corps Commanders Conference on&nbsp;Tuesday&nbsp;to discuss the situation&nbsp;‬post abrogation of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jammu-and-kashmir-reorganisation-bill-passed-in-rajya-sabha-with-125-members-in-favour-240893">Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir</a>.&nbsp;

India's envoy to Pakistan Ajay Bisaria was summoned and a "strong protest" was lodged by handing over a demarche by the foreign secretary of Pakistan&nbsp;Sohail Mahmood.

The first reaction from Pakistan came in the afternoon, almost two hours after Union Home Minister Amit Shah announced that the government will go ahead with the abrogation of Article 370.&nbsp;

In a tweet, Pak president's office said, "India's attempt to further change status...&nbsp;is against the resolutions of UNSC and against wishes of the Kashmiri people".&nbsp;

What followed was a barrage of tweets, statements from Pakistan's foreign minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi and Pakistani's foreign ministry.&nbsp;

While "condemning and rejecting" the announcements made by New Delhi, Qureshi in a tweet said that his government will highlight the development with the&nbsp;"US delegation visiting Pakistan and with the international community at large."

Senior&nbsp;US State Department diplomat&nbsp;Alice Wells is on a visit to Pakistan as a follow-up to the visit of Pakistan's Prime Minister Imran Khan to the US.

Qureshi further said, "Pakistan reaffirms it's abiding commitment to the Kashmir cause".

Pak foreign ministry in a statement said that Islamabad "will exercise all possible options to counter the illegal steps."

Meanwhile, Pak PM Imran Khan reached out to countries like Malaysia and Turkey.&nbsp;Imran Khan spoke to&nbsp;Malaysian Prime Minister&nbsp;Mahathir&nbsp;Mohamad and&nbsp;Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and apprised them about Islamabad's views on India's action.

Pakistan is a huddle after India decided to remove special status to Jammu and Kashmir and fully integrate it with the country's union. While Pakistan's President Arif Alvi has called for a joint session of Parliament, its Army chief has summoned Corps Commanders Conference on Tuesday to discuss the situation ‬post abrogation of Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir.

Pakistan is a huddle after India decided to remove special status to Jammu and Kashmir and fully integrate it with the country's union. While Pakistan's President Arif Alvi has called for a joint session of Parliament, its Army chief has summoned Corps Commanders Conference on Tuesday to discuss the situation ‬post abrogation of Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir. India's envoy to Pakistan Ajay Bisaria was summoned and a "strong protest" was lodged by handing over a demarche by the foreign secretary of Pakistan Sohail Mahmood. The first reaction from Pakistan came in the afternoon, almost two hours after Union Home Minister Amit Shah announced that the government will go ahead with the abrogation of Article 370. In a tweet, Pak president's office said, "India's attempt to further change status... is against the resolutions of UNSC and against wishes of the Kashmiri people". What followed was a barrage of tweets, statements from Pakistan's foreign minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi and Pakistani's foreign ministry. While "condemning and rejecting" the announcements made by New Delhi, Qureshi in a tweet said that his government will highlight the development with the "US delegation visiting Pakistan and with the international community at large." Senior US State Department diplomat Alice Wells is on a visit to Pakistan as a follow-up to the visit of Pakistan's Prime Minister Imran Khan to the US. Qureshi further said, "Pakistan reaffirms it's abiding commitment to the Kashmir cause". Pak foreign ministry in a statement said that Islamabad "will exercise all possible options to counter the illegal steps." Meanwhile, Pak PM Imran Khan reached out to countries like Malaysia and Turkey. Imran Khan spoke to Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and apprised them about Islamabad's views on India's action.

Abrogation of Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir: Pakistan in huddle, summons Indian envoy

Former chief ministers of Jammu and Kashmir Mehbooba Mufti and Omar Abdullah, who were put under house arrest on Sunday night, have been detained hours after resolution on scrapping of Article 370 was passed in Rajya Sabha.

Former chief ministers of Jammu and Kashmir Mehbooba Mufti and Omar Abdullah, who were put under house arrest on Sunday night, have been detained hours after resolution on scrapping of Article 370 was passed in Rajya Sabha. Other political leaders of J&K including Shah Faesal, Mohammed Yousuf Tarigami, Usman Majid have also been put under preventive detention. PDP chief Mehbooba Mufti has been shifted to Jammu's Hari Niwas Palace and Jammu and Kashmir National Conference Vice President Omar Abdullah has been moved to a makeshift jail in a guest house in Srinagar as a preventive measure till the further orders by the authorities. At present, J&K is cut off from the rest of the country at present with all communication lines snapped. The Centre had deployed a huge contingent of central forces in the Valley anticipating violence, ahead of its decision to announce the presidential order on withdrawing special status to the state. Meanwhile, National Security Adviser to Prime Minister Ajit Doval is also present in Jammu and Kashmir to take a review of the situation on the ground. Earlier in the day, the Modi government also abolished Article 35A by Presidential order. The state of Jammu and Kashmir was bifurcated into two union territories – Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh. Jammu and Kashmir will have its legislative assembly, Ladakh will not have any state legislature.

Article 370: Omar Abdullah, Mehbooba Mufti detained after special status to Jammu and Kashmir is revoked

After Central government's announced to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/true-development-and-integration-of-jammu-and-kashmir-will-happen-now-nirmala-sitharaman-240845">bifurcate Jammu and Kashmir</a> and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/article-370-responsible-for-corruption-poverty-underdevelopment-in-jammu-and-kashmir-amit-shah-240865">revoke Article 370 and Article 35A</a>, the question arises on the road ahead following the landmark judgement, which, can spell challenges for the PM Modi-led government.&nbsp;

The decision to abrogate Article 370 and Article 35A involves legal, political, diplomatic and security issues, here's a look:

Groundwork

For one, New Delhi needs to win the hearts and minds of the people in Jammu and Kashmir. Some in Kashmir have already made known their opposition to the removal of the special status to the state.&nbsp;

Jobs, development, investment&nbsp;

The government will need to generate much-needed goodwill among the locals by creating jobs for youths. Attract foreign direct investment and encourage the private sector to set up shops.

Good governance will be a key aim as decades of violence has left a void in terms of the development of the state.&nbsp;

Fair polls

Free and fair elections will be on the agenda too - today, the legislature stands dissolved and the state has been pot under governor's rule.

Delimitation of Assembly constituencies to make it more representative is not off the table as well.&nbsp;

On the diplomatic front, New Delhi will need to manage and pre-empt international reaction at once.

Sources have told WION that diplomats would soon fan-out to key world capitals to explain to them the circumstances leading up the abrogation of Article 370 and 35A.

The sources added that India has factored-in Pakistan's reaction at various world forums.&nbsp;

Security&nbsp;

Then there is the security issue, which is another concern. New Delhi has already sent thousands of additional troops to Jammu and Kashmir as a contingency measure.&nbsp;

Steps have also been taken to counter terrorists' designs.

The government is also seized of the need to counter any legal challenge to today's decisions.

After Central government's announced to bifurcate Jammu and Kashmir and revoke Article 370 and Article 35A, the question arises on the road ahead following the landmark judgement, which, can spell challenges for the PM Modi-led government.

After Central government's announced to bifurcate Jammu and Kashmir and revoke Article 370 and Article 35A, the question arises on the road ahead following the landmark judgement, which, can spell challenges for the PM Modi-led government. The decision to abrogate Article 370 and Article 35A involves legal, political, diplomatic and security issues, here's a look: Groundwork For one, New Delhi needs to win the hearts and minds of the people in Jammu and Kashmir. Some in Kashmir have already made known their opposition to the removal of the special status to the state. Jobs, development, investment The government will need to generate much-needed goodwill among the locals by creating jobs for youths. Attract foreign direct investment and encourage the private sector to set up shops. Good governance will be a key aim as decades of violence has left a void in terms of the development of the state. Fair polls Free and fair elections will be on the agenda too - today, the legislature stands dissolved and the state has been pot under governor's rule. Delimitation of Assembly constituencies to make it more representative is not off the table as well. On the diplomatic front, New Delhi will need to manage and pre-empt international reaction at once. Sources have told WION that diplomats would soon fan-out to key world capitals to explain to them the circumstances leading up the abrogation of Article 370 and 35A. The sources added that India has factored-in Pakistan's reaction at various world forums. Security Then there is the security issue, which is another concern. New Delhi has already sent thousands of additional troops to Jammu and Kashmir as a contingency measure. Steps have also been taken to counter terrorists' designs. The government is also seized of the need to counter any legal challenge to today's decisions.

The road ahead: What's next for Jammu and Kashmir after bifurcation, revocation of Articles 370, 35A

Whether you like it or not, Narendra Modi-Amit Shah model has unleashed new politics in India. One can call it politics of change which continuously challenges the status quo.

This combination has ended the politics of status quo which afflicted Indian politics and our international positions for a long time. By doing away with Article 370, Narendra Modi has shown that he means business when it comes to the core agenda of the RSS family.

The idea of abrogation of Article 370 was not born yesterday. It has been one of the original demands of Shyama Prasad Mukherjee who founded Jan Sangh and, very famously, coined the phrase, "Ek desh mein do vidhan, do pradhan aur do nishan nahi rah sakte hain."

It is a demand which has been part of BJP’s manifesto that was strongly supported by RSS. And hence, what Modi has done is to commit himself to the core idea of his party by changing the status quo of politics in Kashmir which was considered impossible. There can be reasons for and against the way Article 370 has been repealed, but the fact remains that he has done it. It will be appreciated by most Indians as it cements his image as a strong and committed leader.

Modi is also not the first person to take important decisions after earning landslide victory in the Lok Sabha elections. Indira Gandhi, after winning the war with Pakistan, hammered out an accord with the Kashmiri leader Sheikh Abdullah when the former had to agree that clock cannot be reset and pre-1953 status of Jammu and Kashmir cannot be restored.

Similarly, Narendra Modi after 2019 victory has taken the bold decision to end Kashmiri exceptionalism in Indian politics. Nation making is not cast in stone and laws and norms must reflect the moorings of the society.&nbsp;

Today, Article 370 cannot be seen in isolation as it serves as a deterrent to prevent integration of J&amp;K with India. Article 370 is a debate which has caught the imagination of many Indians who feel confident in a resurgent India wants status quo born out of partition to be changed forever.&nbsp;

The abrogation also ends the debate on what the Indian government can/should do with Kashmir. There will be international repercussion and, maybe, bigger domestic ones but it will not change anything on the ground per se.

We should also not forget that Kashmir also comprises Batalik, Kargil, Turtuk, Ladakh and Jammu region and their aspirations cannot be lost to radicalism which is emanating from Southern Kashmir.&nbsp;

Yes, there will be questions about the detention of state leaders and less time given to Parliament to debate the bill, but no one would argue that status changing step has not been taken. Whether it is demonetisation or triple talaq, BJP has successfully changed the status quo of politics in India. The best example is Balakot strike where Modi used the air platform against Pakistan which was considered impossible some years back.

Lastly, Opposition parties will have to creatively deal with the politics of positive nationalism. Any idea which public would see as going against the national unity would massively boom rang.

Though it does not mean that BJP will not have any hill to climb. The top focus of the BJP will remain to tackle violence in the valley. If BJP is able to control the urban centres and restore the normalcy in Kashmir, it will be a victory, but in case the situation becomes worst, then BJP may have to rue this for a long time.&nbsp;

But there are always big ifs before and after momentous decisions and no one can take away from BJP that it has, indeed, taken a big decision by reorganising the state of Jammu and Kashmir. 
 
(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Whether you like it or not, Narendra Modi-Amit Shah model has unleashed new politics in India. One can call it politics of change which continuously challenges the status quo.

Whether you like it or not, Narendra Modi-Amit Shah model has unleashed new politics in India. One can call it politics of change which continuously challenges the status quo. This combination has ended the politics of status quo which afflicted Indian politics and our international positions for a long time. By doing away with Article 370, Narendra Modi has shown that he means business when it comes to the core agenda of the RSS family. The idea of abrogation of Article 370 was not born yesterday. It has been one of the original demands of Shyama Prasad Mukherjee who founded Jan Sangh and, very famously, coined the phrase, "Ek desh mein do vidhan, do pradhan aur do nishan nahi rah sakte hain." It is a demand which has been part of BJP’s manifesto that was strongly supported by RSS. And hence, what Modi has done is to commit himself to the core idea of his party by changing the status quo of politics in Kashmir which was considered impossible. There can be reasons for and against the way Article 370 has been repealed, but the fact remains that he has done it. It will be appreciated by most Indians as it cements his image as a strong and committed leader. Modi is also not the first person to take important decisions after earning landslide victory in the Lok Sabha elections. Indira Gandhi, after winning the war with Pakistan, hammered out an accord with the Kashmiri leader Sheikh Abdullah when the former had to agree that clock cannot be reset and pre-1953 status of Jammu and Kashmir cannot be restored. Similarly, Narendra Modi after 2019 victory has taken the bold decision to end Kashmiri exceptionalism in Indian politics. Nation making is not cast in stone and laws and norms must reflect the moorings of the society. Today, Article 370 cannot be seen in isolation as it serves as a deterrent to prevent integration of J&K with India. Article 370 is a debate which has caught the imagination of many Indians who feel confident in a resurgent India wants status quo born out of partition to be changed forever. The abrogation also ends the debate on what the Indian government can/should do with Kashmir. There will be international repercussion and, maybe, bigger domestic ones but it will not change anything on the ground per se. We should also not forget that Kashmir also comprises Batalik, Kargil, Turtuk, Ladakh and Jammu region and their aspirations cannot be lost to radicalism which is emanating from Southern Kashmir. Yes, there will be questions about the detention of state leaders and less time given to Parliament to debate the bill, but no one would argue that status changing step has not been taken. Whether it is demonetisation or triple talaq, BJP has successfully changed the status quo of politics in India. The best example is Balakot strike where Modi used the air platform against Pakistan which was considered impossible some years back. Lastly, Opposition parties will have to creatively deal with the politics of positive nationalism. Any idea which public would see as going against the national unity would massively boom rang. Though it does not mean that BJP will not have any hill to climb. The top focus of the BJP will remain to tackle violence in the valley. If BJP is able to control the urban centres and restore the normalcy in Kashmir, it will be a victory, but in case the situation becomes worst, then BJP may have to rue this for a long time. But there are always big ifs before and after momentous decisions and no one can take away from BJP that it has, indeed, taken a big decision by reorganising the state of Jammu and Kashmir. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

PM Narendra Modi does it again: BJP has achieved the impossible by revoking Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir

Home Minister Amit Shah defended revoking Article 370 by recountit has been the root cause behind rise of terrorism, poverty and lack of development in the valley. He also assured that J&K will become a state again once normalcy is ensured.

Terrorism, poverty, deprivation: Amit Shah's defense in favour of scrapping Article 370

Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Bill, 2019 was passed in the Upper House of Parliament of Monday evening with a total of 125 votes in favour while 61 members voted against it.&nbsp;

The government on Monday announced the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jammu-and-kashmir-now-a-union-territory-ladakh-to-be-administered-from-delhi-as-ut-240769">bifurcation of the state of Jammu and Kashmir</a>&nbsp;and revoked Article 370 and Article 35A in Jammu and Kashmir.

While Jammu and Kashmir will be a Union Territory with a legislature, Ladakh has been converted into a separate Union Territory sans legislature. The Union Territory of Ladakh will be administered by Delhi.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Monday addressed Rajya Sabha and said that scrapping Article 370 is essential to end terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
The Jammu &amp; Kashmir Reorganisation Bill, 2019 passed by Rajya Sabha <a href="https://t.co/jixNAn3x0y">pic.twitter.com/jixNAn3x0y</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1158367561039437824?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 5, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

"I am convinced this move will result in the end of violence in Jammu and Kashmir," Shah said.&nbsp;

The Home Minister further added that the reason for corruption, poverty, underdevelopment and lack of investments in Jammu and Kashmir was Article 370.&nbsp;

"Tourism could not take place in Jammu and Kashmir because of Article 370," he noted.&nbsp;

"Scrapping Article 370 is also essential to end terrorism," he stated.

Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Bill, 2019 was passed in the Upper House of Parliament of Monday evening with a total of 125 votes in favour while 61 members voted against it.

Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Bill, 2019 was passed in the Upper House of Parliament of Monday evening with a total of 125 votes in favour while 61 members voted against it. The government on Monday announced the bifurcation of the state of Jammu and Kashmir and revoked Article 370 and Article 35A in Jammu and Kashmir. While Jammu and Kashmir will be a Union Territory with a legislature, Ladakh has been converted into a separate Union Territory sans legislature. The Union Territory of Ladakh will be administered by Delhi. Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Monday addressed Rajya Sabha and said that scrapping Article 370 is essential to end terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir. The Jammu & Kashmir Reorganisation Bill, 2019 passed by Rajya Sabha pic.twitter.com/jixNAn3x0y — ANI (@ANI) August 5, 2019 × "I am convinced this move will result in the end of violence in Jammu and Kashmir," Shah said. The Home Minister further added that the reason for corruption, poverty, underdevelopment and lack of investments in Jammu and Kashmir was Article 370. "Tourism could not take place in Jammu and Kashmir because of Article 370," he noted. "Scrapping Article 370 is also essential to end terrorism," he stated.

Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Bill passed in Rajya Sabha with 125 members in favour

When Home Minister Amit Shah announced repealing Articles 370 and 35A which gave special status to Jammu and Kashmir, it was a result of a carefully crafted strategy by the government of India to avoid any untoward incident.

When Home Minister Amit Shah announced repealing Articles 370 and 35A which gave special status to Jammu and Kashmir, it was a result of a carefully crafted strategy by the government of India to avoid any untoward incident. The ground was prepared by the elimination of terrorists in the Valley as the Indian security forces launched a massive crackdown against active terror groups. On August 2, Indian Army found a huge cache of arms, including a Pakistani mine and an American sniper rifle, on the route of the Amarnath Yatra. Within a few hours of this arms haul, the Amarnath Yatra was curtailed and the pilgrims were asked to leave the Kashmir valley. Watch: Kashmir is reborn, New era of Jammu & Kashmir On the same day, a group of political leaders including former chief minister Mehbooba Mufti met Governor Satyapal Malik and asked him to clear the sense of uncertainty. The Governor, however, asked the people to remain calm and exaggerate the rumours about the advisory. On August 3, around 6,200 people were taken out of the Kashmir valley through civilian and military aircraft. The 43-day-long Machail Yatra to the shrine in Kishtwar was also suspended. The same day, the Indian Army foiled an attack by Pakistan's Border Action Team (BAT). The UK, Canada and Australia issued travel advisories urging their citizens not to travel to Jammu and Kashmir. The Army said that 5-7 Pakistani BAT regulators were gunned down. On August 4, state carrier Air India reduced fares on the Srinagar-New Delhi route and almost 100 cricketers in the Kashmir valley were asked to leave. Home Minister Amit Shah held a crucial security meeting with National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval and Home Secretary Rajiv Gauba. Then, late into the night on August 4, two former chief ministers - Mehbooba Mufti and Omar Abdullah - were placed under house arrest along with other political leaders. Internet services were also suspended in the Kashmir valley.

Lead-up to the bifurcation of Jammu and Kashmir: Timeline of recent events

History of Kashmir and what revoking of special status means

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Monday addressed&nbsp;Rajya Sabha and replied to the debate in the Upper House on the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/true-development-and-integration-of-jammu-and-kashmir-will-happen-now-nirmala-sitharaman-240845">revocation of Article 370</a>&nbsp;and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/what-is-article-35a-heres-all-you-need-to-know-240752">Article 35A</a>&nbsp;in Jammu and Kashmir.

Shah opened his address by stating that he has brought a "historic proposal"&nbsp;to the table.

Calling Jammu and Kashmir the "crown jewel of India", Shah said that all efforts must be made to attain normalcy in Jammu and Kashmir.&nbsp;

"I am convinced this move will result in the end of violence in Jammu and Kashmir," Shah said.&nbsp;

The Home Minister further added that the reason for corruption, poverty, underdevelopment and lack of investments in Jammu and Kashmir was <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/article-370-revoked-from-jammu-and-kashmir-all-you-need-to-know-240772">Article 370</a>.&nbsp;

"I want to tell the people of J&amp;K what damage 370 &amp; 35A did to the state. It's because of these sections that democracy was never fully implemented, corruption increased in the state, that no development could take place," Shah stated.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Amit Shah in Rajya Sabha: I want to tell the people of J&amp;K what damage 370 &amp; 35A did to the state. It's because of these sections that democracy was never fully implemented, corruption increased in the state, that no development could take place <a href="https://t.co/EtvHHQ6jRO">pic.twitter.com/EtvHHQ6jRO</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1158350360509067264?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 5, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

"The entire country is on the path of development, it is heartwrenching to see the state of villages in Jammu and Kashmir," Shah noted exuding confidence that scrapping Article 370 will better the situations in Jammu and Kashmir.&nbsp;

"Tourism could not take place in Jammu and Kashmir because of Article 370," he noted.&nbsp;

"Scrapping Article 370 is also essential to end terrorism," he stated.

"We must all rise from vote bank politics and work for the development of Jammu and Kashmir, we must work as a unified House," Shah wrapping up his address in the Upper House in the presence of&nbsp;&nbsp;Prime Minister Narendra Modi.&nbsp;

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman also resounded similar sentiments on Monday.

Lauding centre's decision of scrapping Article 370 and 35A in Jammu and Kashmir she said that the move will facilitate the development of Jammu and Kashmir.&nbsp;

"No investment is happening in Jammu and Kashmir," Sitharaman said, adding that "with this move, the true development and integration of Jammu and Kashmir will happen".&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
The finance minister said that the entire nation had been waiting for this for the last 70 years.&nbsp;

"Even our manifesto mentioned the need to abrogate Article 370, so it is not something we brought out suddenly like a rabbit from a magic hat," she said.&nbsp;

The government on Monday announced the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jammu-and-kashmir-now-a-union-territory-ladakh-to-be-administered-from-delhi-as-ut-240769">bifurcation of the state of Jammu and Kashmir</a>. While Jammu and Kashmir will be a Union Territory with a legislature, Ladakh has been converted into a separate Union Territory sans legislature. The Union Territory of Ladakh will be administered by Delhi.

 
&nbsp;

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Monday addressed Rajya Sabha and replied to the debate in the Upper House on the revocation of Article 370 and Article 35A in Jammu and Kashmir.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Monday addressed Rajya Sabha and replied to the debate in the Upper House on the revocation of Article 370 and Article 35A in Jammu and Kashmir. Shah opened his address by stating that he has brought a "historic proposal" to the table. Calling Jammu and Kashmir the "crown jewel of India", Shah said that all efforts must be made to attain normalcy in Jammu and Kashmir. "I am convinced this move will result in the end of violence in Jammu and Kashmir," Shah said. The Home Minister further added that the reason for corruption, poverty, underdevelopment and lack of investments in Jammu and Kashmir was Article 370. "I want to tell the people of J&K what damage 370 & 35A did to the state. It's because of these sections that democracy was never fully implemented, corruption increased in the state, that no development could take place," Shah stated. Amit Shah in Rajya Sabha: I want to tell the people of J&K what damage 370 & 35A did to the state. It's because of these sections that democracy was never fully implemented, corruption increased in the state, that no development could take place pic.twitter.com/EtvHHQ6jRO — ANI (@ANI) August 5, 2019 × "The entire country is on the path of development, it is heartwrenching to see the state of villages in Jammu and Kashmir," Shah noted exuding confidence that scrapping Article 370 will better the situations in Jammu and Kashmir. "Tourism could not take place in Jammu and Kashmir because of Article 370," he noted. "Scrapping Article 370 is also essential to end terrorism," he stated. "We must all rise from vote bank politics and work for the development of Jammu and Kashmir, we must work as a unified House," Shah wrapping up his address in the Upper House in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman also resounded similar sentiments on Monday. Lauding centre's decision of scrapping Article 370 and 35A in Jammu and Kashmir she said that the move will facilitate the development of Jammu and Kashmir. "No investment is happening in Jammu and Kashmir," Sitharaman said, adding that "with this move, the true development and integration of Jammu and Kashmir will happen". The finance minister said that the entire nation had been waiting for this for the last 70 years. "Even our manifesto mentioned the need to abrogate Article 370, so it is not something we brought out suddenly like a rabbit from a magic hat," she said. The government on Monday announced the bifurcation of the state of Jammu and Kashmir. While Jammu and Kashmir will be a Union Territory with a legislature, Ladakh has been converted into a separate Union Territory sans legislature. The Union Territory of Ladakh will be administered by Delhi.

Scrapping Article 370 essential to achieve normalcy in country's 'crown jewel', Jammu and Kashmir: Amit Shah

article-370

Article 370, News on Article 370, stories on Article 370, articles on Article 370, Article 370 stories at Wion, Article 370 news, Article 370 latest news