Umaisar Gull Ganie
Kulgam, Oct 17: Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, Omar Abdullah Friday said that his government is making continuous efforts for the restoration of statehood, hoping that more powers (statehood) will be granted soon, which is being delayed for the reasons only known to Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).
Speaking to reporters in Kulgam, Omar said that statehood was a promise made to the people of Jammu and Kashmir and should have been fulfilled by now. “We were hoping that the Centre would restore statehood within a year. We don’t know why there is a delay — only the BJP knows. But our fight for it will continue,” he said.
On revival of bi-annual Durbar Move practice, Omar said, “I have made it clear from day one that in the Union Territory, whatever promises we made, we will fulfill them. “The Durbar Move was one of the promises we made in our manifesto, and since 2021, it has been restored.”
About reservation, the Chief Minister said that a cabinet sub-committee led by Sakeena Itoo was formed and it has submitted the final report. “The report has been approved. The cabinet memo is being prepared for circulation and will be sent to the LG for approval,” the Chief Minister said.
Regarding losses suffered by farmers, Omar said that the government does not need to wait for the Assembly to address the issue. “Wherever there has been damage to agricultural or horticultural crops, assessments have been completed. Talks with the Centre are underway for a relief package, similar to those given to other states. J&K also deserves such a package,” he said.
On the revocation of FIRs registered during COVID-19 restrictions, Omar said, “Law and order is not with the elected government right now. Once we regain those powers, we will fulfill our other promises as well.”
Meanwhile, in a post on X, the Office of Chief Minister, J&K, said that Omar Abdullah took a round of stalls set up by various departments at Kulgam.
“Chief Minister took a round of stalls set up by various departments at Kulgam, showcasing key Government schemes, public welfare initiatives, and achievements under flagship programmes,” the post reads.
“He interacted with officials and beneficiaries, appreciating the efforts towards ensuring citizen-centric governance and effective service delivery,” it added. (KNO)
