Need to protect our 'special position' first: Mehbooba Mufti

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti on Tuesday warned about the consequence of tinkering with Article 35 A in the state said we first need to protect our 'special position' which was granted to us in year 1947 then we can demand for more.

Article 35A of the Constitution empowers the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly to define the state's permanent residents and their privileges.

While addressing a public meeting at Jawal Pora village in Budgam district, Mehbooba said, "We have to provide all facilities to our people but for that peace is essential in the state. We will first protect our 'special position' which was granted to us in year 1947 then we can demand for more".

Further hailing about her government, Mehbooba stated that she is doing her best to bring all facilities to the state.

"My government aims to build hospitals with all facilities in every constituency and also to provide the best medical care. We are planning to construct new schools and colleges in the state. My appeal to all young and old both male and female citizen is to restore peace which is vital for development".

Article 35A has been challenged in the Supreme Court, which will give its verdict next month.

Article 35A was inserted into the Constitution of India through a presidential order in 1954, to guarantee that the maharaja's ban on outsiders would remain. It actually makes little difference in practical terms, for domicile rights apply in other states too.