Union Home Minister (UHM) Amit Shah on June 28 stated in the Lok Sabha (Lower House of Indian Parliament) that Assembly Elections in Jammu and Kashmir will be held in a democratic, free and fair manner as soon as the Election Commission announces the dates, reports Daily Excelsior. The Lok Sabha also gave its nod to extend President’s Rule in Jammu and Kashmir for another six months beginning July 3. Amit Shah also told Lok Sabha that Article 370 of the Constitution which extends special status to Jammu and Kashmir, is ‘temporary in nature’ and ‘not permanent’.
The Lok Sabha also cleared the Jammu and Kashmir Reservation (Amendment) Bill, 2019, to replace an ordinance issued by the previous government. People living along the International Border (IB) in Jammu and Kashmir will get benefits of reservation in direct recruitment, promotion and admission in professional courses on par with those living along the Actual Line of Control (ALoC), according to the bill.