Special Status of Jammu & Kashmir
Article 370 of the Indian Constitution was enacted to provide special autonomy to the region of Jammu and Kashmir. This provision recognized the unique circumstances surrounding the accession of Jammu and Kashmir to India in 1947.
Key Features of Article 370:
- Autonomy: Jammu and Kashmir enjoyed significant autonomy, allowing the state to have its own constitution and a high degree of legislative power.
- Limited Applicability of Indian Laws: Most laws passed by the Indian Parliament were not applicable to Jammu and Kashmir unless the state government agreed to them.
- Residency Rights: The state had the authority to define its residents and provide special rights and privileges to them, which included restrictions on property ownership for non-residents.
Revocation of Article 370:
On August 5, 2019, the Government of India revoked the special status granted under Article 370. This significant move led to the following:
- Integration into India: The region was fully integrated into India, and the Indian Constitution became applicable in its entirety.
- Impact on Rights: The revocation resulted in the removal of the unique privileges that residents of Jammu and Kashmir had previously enjoyed.
Conclusion:
Article 370 played a crucial role in defining the relationship between Jammu and Kashmir and the Indian Union. Its revocation marked a pivotal moment in the region's history, impacting its governance and the rights of its residents. Understanding this article is essential for anyone studying the political dynamics of India, especially in the context of Jammu and Kashmir.

Article 370 of the Indian Constitution granted special status to Jammu & Kashmir, providing greater autonomy to the state compared to other states in India.