New Delhi, August 25 – The long-standing hopes of Jammu & Kashmir citizens for the restoration of statehood saw yet another delay today. The Supreme Court of India declined a request for an urgent hearing in the statehood matter, firmly stating that the case will proceed as already scheduled on October 10.
In court today, the petitioners’ counsel pressed for early consideration, expressing concern over the delay in addressing the restoration of J&K’s statehood—an issue closely tied to the abrogation of Article 370.
“I am seeking an early listing of a contempt petition. Statehood was promised to the people of Jammu and Kashmir,” the lawyer stated before the bench led by Chief Justice BR Gavai.
However, the Chief Justice responded that the bench is currently engaged with a significant Presidential reference, requiring a Constitutional Bench setup. He added, “The matter has already been listed for October 10, and it cannot be heard before that.”
This follows an earlier directive from the apex court on August 14, when it gave the Centre eight weeks to file its reply regarding the restoration of J&K’s statehood. At that time, the court emphasized the importance of considering the ground realities, referencing the tragic terror attack in Pahalgam that claimed 26 innocent lives.
For the people of Jammu and Kashmir, the issue of statehood is more than just political—it touches the very core of identity, governance, and representation. As the October date approaches, hopes continue to flicker for clarity, justice, and the long-awaited return of democratic dignity in the region.
