SC reserves verdict on J&K curbs

New Delhi, November 27

The Supreme Court today reserved its verdict on a bunch of pleas, including that of Congress leader Ghulam Nabi Azad, challenging the restriction imposed in the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir following abrogation of provisions of Article 370.

A Bench of Justice NV Ramana, Justice R Subhash Reddy and Justice B R Gavai reserved the verdict.

Appearing for Azad, senior advocate Kapil Sibal said they understand there are national security issues in Jammu and Kashmir, but the entire seven million population cannot be “locked down”.

Advocate Vrinda Grover, appearing for Kashmir Times Editor Anuradha Bhasin, termed the curbs “unconstitutional” and said the restrictions have to pass the test of proportionality.

On Tuesday, the Jammu and Kashmir administration justified imposition of curbs on Internet services after abrogation of provisions of Article 370, saying separatists and Pakistan’s Army made attempts on social media to instigate people for ‘jihad’.

Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, appearing for the J&K administration, had said that it was not only fighting enemies within, but also with those from across the border. He referred to public speeches and social media posts of former J&K CM Mehbooba Mufti and NC leaders. — PTI