Amit Shah Introduces Jammu and Kashmir Reorganization Act Bill in Parliament, Hails Supreme Court’s Verdict
New Delhi, 11th December 2023: The sixth day of the Winter Session of Parliament witnessed Union Home Minister Amit Shah introducing the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganization Act Bill in the Rajya Sabha, marking a significant development in India’s political landscape. Shah, addressing the House, declared the day historic, citing the Supreme Court’s validation of the bill’s intention.
Amit Shah underscored the Supreme Court’s endorsement of the bill, emphasizing that the legislation would be passed by the House, leaving an indelible mark in the history of both Jammu and Kashmir and India. The Home Minister highlighted the court’s assertion that the Constitution of Jammu and Kashmir no longer exists following the abolition of Article 370.
Discussing Article 370, Shah stated that the Supreme Court’s judgment confirmed it as a temporary provision in the Indian Constitution. He condemned those asserting its permanence, deeming it an insult to the Constitution.
Amit Shah directed criticism towards the Congress, addressing their opposition after the Supreme Court’s decision. He outlined the legal timeline, noting that both houses of Parliament and the President had approved the law, only for a challenge to be presented in the Supreme Court. Despite the court’s decision, Shah lamented the Congress party’s refusal to accept it.
Shah discussed the work of the new Delimitation Commission, which has adjusted seat allocations in Jammu and Kashmir. He informed the House that seats in Jammu had increased from 37 to 43, while in Kashmir, they had gone from 46 to 47. The total seats in the region had risen from 83 to 90. Shah defended the reservation of 24 seats for Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), asserting territorial rights.
Shah linked Article 370 to the promotion of separatism and subsequent terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir. He emphasized the importance of rectifying decisions that time prove detrimental to national interests.
Addressing the historical delay in the merger of Kashmir with India, Shah explained that the postponement stemmed from the demand for special status to Sheikh Abdullah. He asserted that untimely ceasefire decisions allowed Pakistan to seize an opportunity to attack. Shah concluded by reflecting on what could have transpired if the ceasefire had been delayed by just two days.
Closing his address, Amit Shah predicted a contest in the 2024 elections, confidently stating that Narendra Modi would secure a third term as Prime Minister.
