Practicing Success

Target Exam

CUET

Subject

Political Science

Chapter

Politics in India Since Independence: Regional Aspirations

Question:

What constitutional change occurred in Jammu and Kashmir in 1965?

Options:

Designation of the head as Prime Minister

A plebiscite was conducted

Establishment of a presidential system

Designation of the head as Chief Minister

Correct Answer:

Designation of the head as Chief Minister

Explanation:

A change was made in 1965 by which the head of the state was designated as the Chief Minister.
Between 1953 and 1974, the Congress party wielded significant influence over the state's political landscape. During this time, a fragmented National Conference (excluding Sheikh Abdullah) held power for a period with active support from the Congress. Eventually, this faction merged with the Congress, granting the latter direct governance control in the state and instigating changes. During this period, various efforts were made to find a resolution between Sheikh Abdullah and the Indian government. In 1965, an alteration to the Jammu and Kashmir Constitution designated the state's head as the Chief Minister instead of the Prime Minister. Consequently, Ghulam Mohammed Sadiq from the Indian National Congress became the inaugural Chief Minister of the state.