Article 370 integral part of Indian constitution: Soz

Srinagar, May 16:  J&K Congress Committee chief Saif-ud-Dn Soz Thursday said Article 370 will always remain an integral part of Indian Constitution and party was duty bound to safeguard the interests of the State guaranteed under the law. “Congress was duty-bound to safeguard the internal autonomy of J&K as enshrined in Constitution of India in the form of Article 370,” Soz said while addressing workers convention in central Kashmir district of Budgam. He emphasized that Article 370 will always remain as an integral part of Indian constitution.

Referring to ruling coalition partner National Conference's demand for restoration of autonomy to the state, Soz said people who want enlargement of the autonomy must understand that a discussion on such a proposition is possible. “Congress has remained in the fore-front in ensuring such a dialogue and discussion”. Article 370 of the Indian constitution grants special autonomous status to Jammu and Kashmir. This article specifies that except for Defence, Foreign Affairs, Finance and Communications, (matters specified in the instrument of accession), the Parliament needs the state government's concurrence for applying all other laws. Soz further said that JKPCC was dead-set on ensuring empowerment of Sarpanchs and Panchs by incorporating the provisions of the 73rd Amendment of the Constitution of India into the Panchayat Act of the state. 

He said State Congress will not compromise on its position on this proposition.

“People of J&K have come to realize that Congress would ensure strengthening of democratic  process at grass root level so that peoples’ participation in developmental programmes become a reality,” he said and appealed workers to strengthen Congress as the party alone will serve the best interests of the people.

Source; http://www.risingkashmir.in/news/article-370-integral-part-of-indian-constitution-soz-47378.aspx