New Delhi, In a robust response to the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), India has unequivocally dismissed the OIC’s expression of concern regarding the Supreme Court’s decision to uphold the revocation of Article 370. Describing the OIC’s statement as “ill-informed and ill-intended,” Arindam Bagchi, spokesperson for the Ministry of External Affairs, criticized the OIC’s credibility, particularly given its association with a “serial violator of human rights and an unrepentant promoter of cross-border terrorism.”
The OIC, through its General Secretariat, had conveyed apprehension over the Supreme Court’s verdict and reiterated solidarity with the people of Jammu and Kashmir. The OIC’s statement urged the reversal of all measures taken since August 5, 2019, emphasizing the internationally-recognized disputed status of the region.
The Supreme Court’s ruling, delivered by a five-judge Constitution bench, clarified that Article 370 was a temporary provision enacted due to wartime conditions. The decision underscored that the state of Jammu and Kashmir did not retain an element of sovereignty when it joined the Union of India. Furthermore, the court stated that the reorganization into two Union Territories—Ladakh and Jammu and Kashmir—was valid under Article 3.
Arindam Bagchi, in rejecting the OIC’s stance, highlighted the historical context of Article 370 and emphasized its transitional nature. The spokesperson emphasized that restoration of statehood for Jammu and Kashmir would occur at the earliest opportunity.
This latest development underscores the persistent international attention on India’s constitutional decisions, especially regarding Article 370, and signals India’s unwavering commitment to its stance on the matter.
