What was the main reason behind abandoning the article 370 in India?

The primary reasons behind the abrogation of Article 370 in India were political, economic, and social, aimed at integrating Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) more closely with the rest of the country. Here are the main reasons:

1. Full Integration of Jammu and Kashmir

• Article 370 provided J&K with special autonomy, creating a sense of separateness. The Indian government sought to fully integrate J&K into the Indian Union to ensure that all citizens, irrespective of their state, are governed by the same laws.
• It was argued that this special status hindered the integration of J&K with the national mainstream.

2. Curbing Terrorism and Separatism

• The region faced prolonged issues of terrorism and separatist movements, which were often attributed to the special status creating a perception of exclusivity.
• The government believed that the abrogation would help curb external influences and militancy in the region.

3. Development and Economic Growth

• Economic stagnation and lack of private investment in J&K were partially attributed to Article 370, which restricted outsiders from purchasing property and investing in the region.
• The government argued that removing these restrictions would open up J&K for development, attract investments, and create job opportunities.

4. Ensuring Equal Rights

• Certain laws and rights applicable in other states, such as those related to women, LGBTQ+ rights, and education, were not applicable in J&K due to Article 370.
• Its removal aimed to bring the region under the same constitutional framework as the rest of India, ensuring equal rights for all citizens.

5. Addressing Internal Security

• Article 370 was seen by some as a barrier to national security, as it limited the central government’s ability to fully exercise its authority in the state.
• Abrogating the article was intended to strengthen internal security measures in the region.

6. Uniformity in Governance

• The government advocated for “One Nation, One Constitution,” emphasizing that special provisions for a single region created an imbalance in governance across states.
• Removing Article 370 sought to establish uniformity in the application of laws.

The decision to abrogate Article 370 on August 5, 2019, was accompanied by the bifurcation of the state of Jammu and Kashmir into two Union Territories: Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh. While the move was supported by many for its long-term vision of integration and development, it also faced criticism for bypassing local consent and imposing changes under contentious circumstances.