In an in-depth conversation with Mushtaq Bala of Kashmir Pen, Muzaffar Shah, Vice President of the Jammu and Kashmir Awami National Conference (ANC), shared that the party, alongside other like-minded groups, is actively preparing a petition for submission to the Supreme Court, aimed at reinstating Article 370. Shah emphasized that restoring Article 370 is essential for protecting Jammu and Kashmir’s unique identity and autonomy. He argued that the article’s removal has impacted the region’s socio-political and cultural landscape, and reestablishing it would ensure the continuity of Kashmir’s historical and constitutional integrity.
Shah discussed how the abrogation of Article 370 affected both governance and the daily lives of the people in Jammu and Kashmir. He highlighted that the party’s initiative is not merely a legal battle but a significant socio-political endeavor. In his view, reviving Article 370 would restore the special provisions that allowed the region a degree of autonomy, which he believes is crucial to addressing the local sentiments, aspirations, and identity.
Shah also mentioned the broader implications of the Supreme Court’s decision, noting that it would have lasting effects on the region’s political future. He urged citizens and leaders across various sectors to support the movement, reinforcing the commitment of the ANC and its allies to fight for a cause they deem integral to Jammu and Kashmir’s heritage and autonomy.
