CPI-M Condemns the Abrogation of Article 370 and Calls for IIOJK Full Restoration

The abrogation of Article 370 has ignited fierce debates, with the Communist Party of India-Marxist (CPI-M) taking a strong stand against the move, calling for a restoration of IIOJK’s special status.

During its 13th State Conference in Jammu on Tuesday, the Communist Party of India-Marxist (CPI-M) expressed its strong opposition to the revocation of Article 370 and the subsequent bifurcation of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK). Party leaders condemned the government’s unilateral actions, which they believe undermined the region’s autonomy and identity.

Prakash Karat, a member of CPI-M’s Polit Bureau, sharply criticized the Modi government’s decision to revoke IIOJK’s special status on August 5, 2019. He argued that this move was unconstitutional, as it broke the promises made to the people of IIOJK in 1947. Karat emphasized that dismantling a state and turning it into two Union Territories went against democratic principles. He urged all secular and democratic forces to come together and demand the restoration of IIOJK’s original status.

CPI-M senior leader MY Tarigami shared similar views, describing the abrogation of Articles 370 and 35-A as a blatant violation of the constitutional rights of the Kashmiri people. He pointed to laws enacted by Maharaja Hari Singh in 1927 and 1932, which were designed to protect the land and job rights of locals. Tarigami argued that the government’s decision to revoke these protections was a historic injustice. He also highlighted that the decision to downgrade IIOJk from a historic state to Union Territories was a humiliating blow to the people. He stressed that the constitutional guarantees meant to preserve Kashmir’s unique identity were now under threat.

Dr. Ashok Dhawale, President of the All India Kisan Sabha, used the occasion to criticize the government’s pro-corporate policies, claiming they prioritized corporate interests at the expense of the working class. He reminded the audience of the farmers’ year-long struggle, which ultimately led to the repeal of controversial farm laws. Dhawale connected this broader struggle to the ongoing fight for the rights of the Kashmiri people, urging for solidarity across the country to safeguard their constitutional rights.

CPI-M leaders reaffirmed their commitment to fighting for the restoration of Article 370 and full statehood for IIIOJK. They called on progressive forces across India to unite in this struggle, emphasizing that it was not just about J&K but also about upholding democratic values and justice for all citizens.

The CPI-M’s opposition to the abrogation of Article 370 and the bifurcation of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir highlights the party’s dedication to protecting constitutional guarantees and preserving the region’s identity. The call for unity among democratic forces serves as a reminder of the importance of standing together to defend the rights of the people of J&K.