Evolution of Congress’s Standpoint
In the year 2019, the Congress vehemently opposed the abrogation of Article 370 when it was revoked in Jammu and Kashmir. However, recent years have seen a significant shift in their approach. With the recent Supreme Court verdict affirming the removal of Article 370, Congress noticeably abstained from addressing its reinstatement. Instead, the focus shifted towards advocating for Jammu and Kashmir’s full statehood and the prompt conduct of assembly elections.
Congress Leaders’ Response to the Verdict
Former Union Minister P. Chidambaram and senior leader Abhishek Manu Singhvi shared their perspectives post the Supreme Court’s decision. Chidambaram clarified, “We never advocated the reinstatement of Article 370. Our opposition was to the manner in which it was revoked.” Expressing dissatisfaction, he added, “While the verdict addresses crucial issues across 476 pages, several questions remain, and we disagree with the decision.” Similarly, Singhvi emphasized the finality of the decision, stating, “The Supreme Court’s verdict concludes this debate. There will be no reconsideration.”
The Opposition’s Previous Stand and Recent Engagements
The opposition was vehement in its protests against the annulment of Article 370 in August 2019. However, recent dialogues amongst various parties in Jammu and Kashmir, including Congress, indicate an inclination towards safeguarding Article 370 and striving for its restoration. This intent led to the formation of the People’s Alliance for Gupkar Declaration (PAGD) in October 2020, with Congress joining discussions on seat allocation.
Congress’s Altered Approach
In November 2020, Congress distanced itself from PAGD, precisely when the Union Home Minister labeled it as a gang supporting terrorism and chaos in Jammu and Kashmir. Consequently, Congress has been cautious in its stance on Article 370, avoiding explicit commitments. Even during Rahul Gandhi’s visit to Jammu and Kashmir, he refrained from affirming support for Article 370’s reinstatement, asserting the clarity of his and the party’s position.
Conclusion and Future Plans
Notably, during a review meeting in Raipur, Congress refrained from discussing the reinstatement of Article 370 explicitly. Instead, the party pledged efforts toward reinstating Jammu and Kashmir’s full statehood and protecting Ladakh under the Constitution’s sixth schedule, omitting direct references to Article 370.