New Delhi: Chief Justice of India (CJI) DY Chandrachud has asked Solicitor General Tushar Mehta to consult with the government of India and determine whether there exists a clear timeline for the reinstatement of statehood for Jammu and Kashmir. He emphasized that the reestablishment of democracy is of utmost importance.
While acknowledging the significance of security considerations, CJI Chandrachud inquired whether a timeframe has been established at the highest level for these matters. He stressed that this information is sought without placing undue pressure on the Solicitor General.
Furthermore, the court bench raised concerns regarding the suspension of Zahoor Ahmad Bhat, a senior political science lecturer, who was suspended four days after he contested the Indian government’s decision to revoke Article 370 before the Supreme Court. Justice B R Gavai questioned the apparent timing between Bhat’s court appearance and his suspension.
On August 5, 2019, the government of India revoked the special status of Jammu and Kashmir, transforming it into two Union Territories and eliminating Article 370. Numerous petitions challenging this move and the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Act, 2019, were referred to a Constitution Bench in 2019.
