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Omar Abdullah Calls for Restoration of Statehood and Unified Governance in Jammu and Kashmir

3 minutes read

Omar Abdullah Calls for Restoration of Statehood and Unified Governance in Jammu and Kashmir

3 minutes read

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has underscored the need for streamlined governance and the restoration of statehood, calling the current hybrid administrative structure inefficient. Addressing the media in Srinagar, Omar Abdullah emphasized that a single command structure is inherently more effective than a dual power system, stating that dual centres of authority often lead to administrative delays and ambiguities. He acknowledged the ongoing coordination with the Raj Bhavan and noted that while differences in opinion exist, there has been no significant confrontation. The Chief Minister highlighted the ongoing drafting of government business rules in consultation with legal experts, which will be forwarded to the Raj Bhavan for approval.

Omar Abdullah reiterated his commitment to the promise of statehood restoration, referencing the Supreme Court’s directive from December 2023, which stated that the restoration should happen “as soon as possible.” He expressed his belief that one year constitutes a reasonable timeframe for fulfilling this commitment. Omar maintained that the people of Jammu and Kashmir, having participated actively in the electoral process, deserve to see their democratic mandate honored.

Reflecting on his initial months in office, Omar Abdullah admitted that transitioning into the Union Territory’s governance model posed certain challenges, but the administration had made significant headway in understanding the system. He expressed confidence in fulfilling the promises outlined in the National Conference’s election manifesto, with some objectives achievable in the short term and others, like statehood restoration, requiring a sustained and patient effort.

Omar also addressed the concerns raised by his party MP, Aga Ruhullah Mehdi, over reservation policies, acknowledging the democratic nature of the National Conference and the right of its members to voice their opinions. He assured that a cabinet sub-committee is actively working on the reservation issue. Furthermore, he highlighted the necessity of protecting local employment opportunities, raising concerns about job competition from candidates outside Jammu and Kashmir.

Touching upon the broader political landscape, Omar Abdullah dismissed claims by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) that the Kashmir issue has been permanently resolved. He argued that the existence of unresolved disputes across the border disproves such assertions. He urged the central government to engage in meaningful dialogue to address the region’s complex political realities.

The Chief Minister acknowledged the historical weight of his party’s promise to work towards the restoration of Jammu and Kashmir’s special status. Following the National Conference’s electoral victory earlier this year, in which it secured 42 out of 90 assembly seats, the new government passed a resolution in its very first Cabinet meeting demanding the reinstatement of statehood. This was followed by a significant resolution in the legislative assembly calling for the return of Jammu and Kashmir’s special status under Article 370, a move strongly opposed by the BJP.

Despite the return of an elected government, the governance structure in Jammu and Kashmir remains heavily influenced by the Lieutenant Governor’s office. Key administrative powers, including control over home affairs and bureaucratic transfers, remain outside the Chief Minister’s direct authority. Omar Abdullah emphasized that while his government will continue to work within the existing framework, lasting administrative efficiency and political stability will only be achieved through the restoration of full statehood.

In closing, Omar Abdullah reaffirmed his commitment to transparency and accountability, promising a 100-day performance report from his government. He expressed optimism that sustained political engagement and institutional reforms would pave the way for a more stable and prosperous Jammu and Kashmir.

 

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