October 11, 2025 – The Supreme Court today at 11 AM granted the Centre four weeks to file a response to petitions seeking the restoration of Jammu and Kashmir’s statehood, abrogated in August 2019 under Article 370. A bench led by Chief Justice D.Y. Chandrachud, hearing pleas from NC leaders and activists like Shehla Rashid, directed the affidavit by November 8, emphasizing “expeditious resolution.” Petitioners argued for democratic rights, citing the 2023 SC verdict upholding 370’s abrogation but urging statehood revival.
For Jammu’s 5 million residents – from Hindu traders in Raghunath Bazaar facing flood delays (4,000 homes damaged in August) to Muslim farmers in Akhnoor – it’s a spark of hope. Rajesh Kumar, 48, a shopkeeper from Talab Tillo, said at his stall around noon: “Statehood means local control over our roads and jobs.” Muslim women in Gujjar Nagar, 200 at a community meet by 1 PM, echoed: “Floods hit us hard; full powers could speed rehab.” Sikh leaders from Reasi prayed at a gurdwara vigil at 2 PM, 150 strong: “Unity across faiths needs state voice.”
Historically, 1947’s accession made J&K a state; 2019’s downgrade to UT sparked debates. Future? If restored, it boosts assembly powers, aiding 10,000 flood jobs. CM Omar Abdullah welcomed the move