Restore normalcy in IoK keeping in mind national interests, Indian SC tells Centre

• Indian SC wants Centre to restore normalcy on selective basis keeping in mind national interests.
• The SC bench refused to pass any order on restoration in IoK.
• Indian CJ says he will visit Srinagar.

The Supreme Court of India said on Monday that the Indian government should ensure normalcy is restored in occupied Kashmir.

The Chief Justice of India Ranjan Gogo told the government to make every endeavour to restore normal life in IoK as soon as possible, Indian media reported. The bench also said that normalcy should be restored on selective basis keeping in mind national interests.

CJI Ranjan Gogoi said that the bench is not passing any orders adding that they want the Centre to restore keeping in mind national security. "We have said all facilities should be restored keeping in mind national security. We are not carving out exceptions for any category," Gogo added.

The CJ also expressed his concerns that people were finding it difficult to approach the IoK high court and sought a report from IOK High Court chief justice. “It is very, very serious if people are unable to approach the high court. I will myself visit Srinagar to see if the situation in IOK is as dire as people are suggesting," the CJ said.

Occupied Kashmir has been under lockdown since August 5 when India stripped off the special status given to the region. India also imposed a curfew, banning internet services and other modes of communication in the area.