New Delhi, August 25 — In a move that has drawn concern and anticipation alike, the Supreme Court of India has declined to grant an urgent hearing in the matter concerning the restoration of Jammu and Kashmir’s statehood. The issue, which has remained a deeply emotional and politically sensitive topic for many citizens of the region, has now been scheduled for regular hearing on October 10.
Appearing before the bench led by Chief Justice BR Gavai, the petitioner’s counsel urged the apex court to expedite the process. “I am seeking early listing of a contempt petition relating to the abrogation of Article 370. Statehood was to be granted to Jammu and Kashmir,” the lawyer pleaded.
However, the Chief Justice held firm, stating that the court was already committed to hearing a presidential reference and would need to convene as a Constitutional Bench. As such, the court could not accommodate the matter before the scheduled date.
The bench emphasized that while the court understands the gravity of the situation, procedural priorities and the court’s calendar must be respected.
This is not the first time the statehood matter has come up. On August 14, the Supreme Court asked the Union Government to file its response within eight weeks regarding the plea on restoring Jammu and Kashmir’s statehood. The court also pointed out that security and ground realities must be considered seriously.
“You cannot ignore what happened in Pahalgam,” said Chief Justice Gavai, recalling the tragic terror attack that claimed 26 innocent lives—a stark reminder of the fragile peace in the region.
For many in Jammu and Kashmir, the wait for full statehood continues to be an emotional and constitutional journey. With the October 10 date on the horizon, hopes are pinned on the judiciary to offer clarity and direction on a matter that touches the very identity and future of the region’s people.
