The highest court of India, Supreme Court on Thursday told the Jammu and Kashmir Administration that it will have to answer every question raised on the restrictions imposed in the state after the revocation of Article 370. Article 370 provided a special status to the state of J&K which was removed in August 2019.
A bench headed by Justice NV Ramana told Solicitor General of India Tushar Mehta, appearing for the administration, that petitioners challenging the restrictions have argued in detail and he will have to answer all questions.
“Mr. Mehta you have to answer each and every question raised by the petitioners who have argued in detail. Your counter-affidavit does not help us to come to any conclusion. Don’t give the impression that you are not giving enough attention to the case,” said the bench, comprising Justices R Subhash Reddy and BR Gavai.
Tushar Mehta said: “Most of the averments made by the petitioners on restrictions are ‘incorrect’ and he will respond to each and every aspect when he argues in court.”
We are not hearing any detention matters with regard to Jammu and Kashmir. We are currently hearing two petitions filed by Anuradha Bhasin and Ghulam Nabi Azad which are on restrictions in freedom of movement, press, etc,” it said, adding that only one habeas corpus petition is pending.
It said only one habeas corpus (against the detention of a businessman) is pending because the petitioner had simultaneously moved before the JK High Court and the Supreme Court.
“Now they have withdrawn from the high court and hence the petition is pending,” the bench said.
The Indian MPs from opposition parties were not allowed to visit Kashmir Valley over security concerns. Although, 23 Member of Europian Parliament (MEPs) visited Kashmir after the revocation of article 370 in August 2019. They wanted to understand how terrorism is affecting India and how it has been a challenge for India.