Jammu and Kashmir Democratic Youth Federation (JKDYF) held a protest demonstration in Srinagar led by its President Wahid Sultan and General Secretary Abdul Rashid Itoo. Hundreds of JKDYF activists carrying banners and placards, shouted slogans in favour of Article 35A at Press Colony Srinagar.While addressing the rally, Wahid Sultan President of the organization said that people across the state feel deeply concerned over the issue as J&K acceded to India under the guarantees provided by the Constitution of India. Any attempt to repeal or fiddle with Article 35A would have serious ramifications in the state.“The organization is of the opinion that Article 35 A, shall in no circumstance be annulled, modified or repealed. There is a general consensus across the state with regard to Article 35A and people of the state are united and can go to any extent to defend the special provision. There should be no fiddling with this Article, which safeguard the state’s special protection.
JKDYF firmly believes that the Article 35A was made under special circumstances and was distinct in comparison to other states. The ruler of the state, Maharaja Hari Singh acceded to India by signing the instrument of accession, which was accepted by the governor general of India on 27 October 1947. Maharaja surrendered only three subjects i.e external affairs, defense and communication to the dominion of India while on all other subjects , the ruler of the state continued his sovereignty in and over the state by virtue of para(8) of the Instrument of accession.The conspiracy to remove Article 35-A is essentially the agenda of communal, divisive and anti democratic forces who want to thrive on uncertainty, discard, hatred and turmoil. Any attempt to abrogate Article 35A will further alienate people of the state from India. Article 35A itself is a part of fundamental right under part III and is not in violation of any other fundamental right including Article 14.The Central Government must file a counter affidavit on the Article 35A issue in the Supreme Court to give an assurance to the people of Jammu and Kashmir. (PTK)