SC upholds abrogation of Article 370, asserts Jammu and Kashmir's integral status

In a landmark verdict, the Supreme Court on Monday upheld the central government’s decision to abrogate Article 370, which granted special status to Jammu and Kashmir.

Chief Justice DY Chandrachud, leading a five-member bench, delivered the judgment, stating that Jammu and Kashmir’s sovereignty ceased after its merger with India.

The bench declared Article 370 a temporary provision and validated its abrogation by the central government.

Additionally, the court supported the creation of Ladakh as a separate union territory. Elections in Jammu and Kashmir were recommended to be conducted by September 30, 2024. The verdict concludes a prolonged legal battle over the constitutional changes initiated in 2019.