India revokes Kashmir's special status

The Indian government has revoked the special status of Indian‑administered Kashmir, in a move that risks increasing already‑heightened tensions with neighbouring Pakistan.

Aljazeera reports the presidential decree revokes Article 370 of India's constitution that guaranteed special rights to the Muslim‑majority state, including its right to its own constitution and decision‑making process for all matters except defence, communications and foreign affairs.

In the lead‑up to its move, India sent thousands of additional troops to the region, imposing a curfew on parts of it, shutting down telecommunications and arresting political leaders.

Both India and Pakistan claim Kashmir in full but rule it in part. 

The nuclear‑armed neighbours have fought two of their three wars over the disputed territory.

The United Nations has urged the two countries to exercise restraint.

[Source: Aljazeera.com]

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