Mon Sep 01 03:00:00 UTC 2025: Here’s a summarized news article based on the provided text:
**Headline: Supreme Court Urges Centre to Expedite Jammu & Kashmir Statehood Restoration**
**New Delhi, September 1, 2025** – The Supreme Court of India has pressed the central government for a detailed response regarding the restoration of statehood to Jammu and Kashmir, a move seen as critical for upholding the nation’s federal structure. The court, hearing the case of Zahoor Ahmed Bhat versus UT of Jammu and Kashmir, acknowledged the principle of separation of powers but emphasized the importance of restoring statehood to safeguard citizens’ rights and maintain the integrity of India’s federal framework.
The court reminded the government of its own December 2023 order, which upheld the abrogation of Articles 370 and 35A but also directed the Union Government to restore statehood and conduct Legislative Assembly elections, which were held in October 2024.
Constitutional experts argue that delaying the restoration undermines the principles enshrined in the Constitution. While Article 3 allows Parliament to reorganize states, taking away statehood and converting it into a Union Territory without eventual restoration is seen as a violation of India’s federal character. The Rajya Sabha, representing the states at the Union level, serves as a crucial component in sustaining India’s unitary federation. Critics suggest the delay is motivated by a desire to maintain central control through the Lieutenant Governor, a position that would be curtailed upon restoration of statehood.
Experts emphasize that India’s unique “Union of States” structure relies on a balance between a strong center and equitable resource distribution. Failing to restore statehood to Jammu and Kashmir could set a dangerous precedent, potentially eroding the very foundation of India’s federal design.
First Piper 