Modi Reiterates Stance on Jammu and Kashmir Autonomy

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi reaffirmed his government’s 2019 decision to revoke the partial autonomy of Jammu and Kashmir during a rally in Maharashtra, Reuters reported yesterday.

He emphasized that “only the constitution of Babasaheb Ambedkar will operate in Kashmir,” declaring that no force could restore Article 370, which granted the region special status.

This statement follows recent local elections in Jammu and Kashmir, where newly elected lawmakers from the National Conference party passed a resolution seeking the restoration of this autonomy. However, the power to reinstate it lies with Modi’s federal government.

Since the revocation, Jammu and Kashmir has been reorganized into two federally administered territories, with local lawmakers now able to legislate on certain issues, albeit with limitations. The region remains a focal point of conflict between India and Pakistan, both of whom claim it in full but govern parts of it.