Lagatar24 Desk
New Delhi: The Supreme Court on Thursday heard petitions seeking restoration of statehood to the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir. The bench emphasised that any decision on granting statehood must take into account the prevailing ground realities. Chief Justice BR Gavai referred to the recent Pahalgam terror attack, stating that such incidents cannot be ignored.
Government Seeks Time to Respond
Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, representing the Centre, reminded the court that the government had earlier assured restoration of statehood after elections. However, he noted that the situation has become complex and requested eight weeks to obtain instructions from the government on the matter. The petitions were filed by Professor Zahoor Ahmad Bhat and activist Khurshid Ahmad Malik, who argued that withholding statehood affects citizens’ rights.
Petitioners’ Concerns
The petitioners contend that the continued Union Territory status undermines democratic representation and governance in the region. They have urged the court to direct the Centre to expedite the restoration process, warning of further erosion of public trust if delays persist.
