Parliament illuminated after resolution to revoke Article 370 was passed in the Rajya Sabha, see pictures

In a historic development that goes a long way towards integrating India like never before, the Narendra Modi-led NDA government on Monday scrapped the much-debated Article 370 of the constitution that gives special status to Jammu and Kashmir and has the effect of differentiating it from the rest of the country in numerous ways. Home Minister Amit Shah while addressing Rajya Sabha proposed the abrogation of Article 370 from the state, as well as the bifurcation of Jammu and Kashmir into two Union Territories - J&K and Ladakh.

Following the day's session, the Parliament was illuminated with beautiful lights to celebrate the remarkable move. The government building was seen all lit up with beautiful pink, red, orange and green lights. The changing colors of the lights enhanced the beauty of the sight.

Take a look:

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Over the years, due to the circumstances created by Article 370 as well as the continuous endeavor by Pakistan to drum up trouble in the state, Kashmir had become one of the most heavily-militarised areas in the world. However, following the withdrawal of Article 370 and 35A, the state which is proposed to be divided into two Union Territories is expected to go back to normalcy.  

What is Article 370?

​​​​​It exempts Jammu and Kashmir from following the Indian Constitution except for Article 1 and itself. It also restricts Parliament's legislative powers in Jammu and Kashmir. It was passed in the Constituent Assembly on May 27, 1949, and is the first article of Part XXI of the Indian Constitution. The heading of this part is ‘Temporary, Transitional and Special Provisions.’ Abrogating Article 370 also has the effect of abrogating Article 35A.

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What is Article 35 A?

Incorporated in the Constitution by a 1954 Presidential order, Article 35 A defines the permanent residents of the state of Jammu and Kashmir by giving special rights and privileges to the state subjects. It stems from Article 370 that gives an autonomous right to Jammu and Kashmir. 

The article is also referred to as Permanent Residents Law and bars woman belonging to the state from any property rights if she marries a person from outside the state. Even the children of such women do not get the right as they do not have any succession rights over the property.