Article 370

Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi’s comments on Article 370 may be political (Dec.2), but they highlight the need to review all Articles related to the States’ formation, bifurcation and change of boundaries. Political parties have been reaping political benefits by exploiting these Acts. It is not only Jammu and Kashmir, but Andhra Pradesh, West Bengal and Uttar Pradesh, which have been subject to political disturbance in the name of wanting the “best.” The major political parties and their allies need to think about this seriously, keeping the national interest in mind.

Sudhakar Reddy Kalathuru,

Tirupati

Mr. Modi’s remarks on Article 370 may have created ripples, but Constituent Assembly debates do reveal that Jawaharlal Nehru did affirm that this special provision was intended as a temporary measure. It is also a fact that Sardar Patel felt strongly about this but had to give in.

While much has been talked about on the sacredness of this Article, there is a need to re-examine it. Critics should also remember that no less sacred was the Privy Purses provision to the princely states, agreed upon during the integration of the Indian Union. But it was done away with on the grounds of its being outdated in the changed situation.

V.N. Ramachandran,

Vadodara

Article 370 has been a hot potato since its inception. None of the major national parties ever used Article 370 as a tool to improve the social and economic fortunes of the people of Jammu and Kashmir. The biggest threat to the State lies across the border and the forces there that are able to exploit the plight of people to foment trouble.

Avadhoot G. Shinde,

New Delhi