J&K BJP advocates permanent closure of cross-LoC trade

The Jammu and Kashmir BJP Monday pitched for permanent closure of cross-LoC trade, currently suspended on the direction of the Centre, saying it has developed into a channel to foment trouble and sponsor illegal and unwanted activities.

The saffron party also launched a scathing attack on National Conference and PDP leadership for their stand on Article 370 and Article 35A which, according to the BJP, have lost their relevance and time has come for their "removal for good".

Article 370 of the Constitution grants special status to Jammu and Kashmir and limits Parliament's power to make laws concerning the state, while Article 35A empowers the state assembly to define 'permanent residents' for bestowing special rights and privileges on them.

"The cross-LoC trade has brought countless miseries to the state as it has developed into a channel to foment trouble and do illegal and unwanted activity. Its suspension should pave the way for its permanent closure," BJP state spokesperson Brig ...