02-08-2023: On the commencement of the Supreme Court’s hearing on pleas challenging the abrogation of Article 370, former chief minister Omar Abdullah expressed his hope for justice from the apex court. He stated that the events that unfolded on August 5, 2019, regarding Jammu and Kashmir were not in accordance with the Constitution and the law, and they would be presented before the Hon’ble Supreme Court.
Speaking at the premises of the Supreme Court, the National Conference leader highlighted the significance of this opportunity to present their grievances before the court. Like any other citizen of the country, Abdullah emphasized that they expect justice to be served in the matter.
The hearing is being conducted by a five-judge Constitution Bench headed by Chief Justice DY Chandrachud, and it has commenced day-to-day proceedings from Wednesday. Senior advocate Kapil Sibal will lead the arguments on behalf of the petitioners challenging the abrogation, and his submissions will continue till Thursday.
On August 5, 2019, the Centre issued a notification repealing Article 370, which granted special status to Jammu and Kashmir, and subsequently, the erstwhile state was bifurcated into two Union Territories – Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh.
The matter involves several petitions challenging the abrogation of Article 370 and the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Act, 2019, which led to the division of the erstwhile state.
These petitions were referred to a Constitution Bench in 2019 for a comprehensive review of the constitutional implications of the decisions made regarding Jammu and Kashmir’s status.