Introduction

Recent discussions surrounding the revocation of Article 370 have brought significant attention to the stance of the Congress party. While some argue that the Congress is against the Article 370 revocation due to self-interest, reputation concerns, and a history of appeasement, this article presents a different perspective. It explores the internal and external dynamics influencing Congress's position, drawing parallels to the concept of a safety valve in a pressure cooker.

The Safety Valve Analogy

Paralleling the analogy of a safety valve in a pressure cooker, this article argues that the Congress opposing the revocation does not necessarily hinder the step. Instead, it plays a crucial role in mitigating the emotional backlash from a significant portion of the Kashmiri population. While Congress does not possess the political clout to stop the government, it can help soothe the aggrieved feelings, thus maintaining a semblance of unity and stability.

Divide and Rule Philosophy: Historical Context

The article further explores the historical context of the Congress party's approach, alleging that they adopted the divide and rule philosophy to maintain their power. This strategy is exemplified through the persistence of Article 370, seen as a microscopic example of their broader strategy to create nations within nations. The Congress has continued to support elements such as regional flags, regional anthems, and differential constitutional provisions, highlighting their disregard for a unified constitution.

Political and Constitutional Implications

Crucially, the article points out that Article 370 is not just a historical artifact. It is a creation of the Congress party, born out of a desire to appease specific political families and movements. Similarly, organizations like the Muslim Personal Law Board, National Conference, PDP, and Sunni Waft Board are also products of this approach. The Congress cannot easily abandon these babies, as they are deeply interconnected with the party's past and present political strategies. Moreover, these matters are remnants of a harmful creation that the nation continues to pay for, highlighting the long-term consequences of such policies.

Conclusion and Future Implications

In conclusion, the stance of the Congress party on Article 370 is multifaceted. While there are clear political and constitutional implications, the article argues that the Congress's opposition also serves a pragmatic purpose. By holding onto this section of the constitution, the Congress continues to play a role in the ongoing dynamics of power and control in India, even if it is not entirely aligned with the national interest. As the debate over Article 370 continues, understanding the internal and external factors influencing the Congress's position can provide valuable insights into the complex landscape of Indian politics and governance.

Keywords: Article 370, Congress, Kashmir Issue, Constitutional Law