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SC Constitution bench to review withdrawal of Art 370
Why in news?
- Supreme Court has referred to a five-judge Bench, several petitions challenging the withdrawal of Art370 and bifurcation of J&K.
More in news
- A Presidential Order on August 5 had withdrawn Article 370.
- The Constitution Bench may start hearing the matter from the beginning of October.
- The court also issued notice to the government on the basis of several petitions challenging media restrictions in Jammu and Kashmir.
- Call for restraint by Attorney General and Solicitor General as the issue has international and cross-border implications.
- Wait & Watch approach by SC while hearing past two pleas.
- Concerns Expressed by Petitioners
(1) Unilateral move to impose curfew,
(2) Unravel the federal structure by dividing the erstwhile state without the consent of the people,
(3) Choke-hold of the authorities on free press,
(4) Clampdown on free speech since August 4.
(5) Petitioners highlighted the Ground Realities .i.e.
(a) Absolute and complete internet and telecommunication shutdown,
(b) Severe restrictions on mobility
(c) Sweeping curtailment on information sharing
- What have the petitioners sought
(1) Relaxation of restrictions,
(2) Allowing journalists to practice their profession and exercise their right to report freely on the situation prevailing in Jammu and Kashmir.
- The CJI sought a response from the government within the next seven days.
Source
The Hindu