Omar urges PM Modi to restore J&K statehood without delay

Omar Abdullah, the former chief minister of Jammu and Kashmir, has directly appealed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for an early restoration of full statehood in the region. The appeal comes amid a broader political push from multiple parties that are urging the central government to keep its earlier commitment to reinstate the state’s constitutional status without further postponement.

The issue of statehood has long been a flashpoint in Jammu and Kashmir politics. In 2019, the central government revoked the region’s special status under Article 370, converting it into a union territory. Since then, the restoration of statehood has been a recurring demand from various political actors, who argue that the change undermines the region’s autonomy and hampers local governance.

In his recent statement, Omar Abdullah emphasized that the people of Jammu and Kashmir deserve the rights and responsibilities that come with full statehood. He called on the Prime Minister to act swiftly, noting that the promise to restore statehood was made during the election period and should not be delayed any longer. His remarks were made during a public interaction, where he highlighted the need for the Centre to honour its word.

All major parties in the region have been vocal about the statehood question, reflecting a rare consensus across the political spectrum. While the National Conference, of which Omar Abdullah is a senior leader, has been at the forefront of the demand, other parties have also voiced support for an early restoration, underscoring the issue’s significance for voters.

The political pressure on the Centre is compounded by the ongoing administrative and developmental challenges in the union territory. Critics argue that the current arrangement limits local decision‑making on key matters such as land use, education, and public administration. They contend that restoring statehood would enable a more responsive government that can address the specific needs of the region.

However, the central government has so far maintained a cautious stance, emphasizing the need for stability and integration. Officials have indicated that any decision on statehood will be taken after a thorough review of the constitutional and administrative implications.

The timing of Omar Abdullah’s appeal is significant. With the upcoming elections in the union territory drawing near, the statehood question is expected to influence voter sentiment. Political analysts suggest that parties that can convincingly demonstrate a commitment to restoring statehood may gain a strategic advantage at the polls.

Omar Abdullah’s call reflects a broader sentiment among the electorate that the central government’s promise should be fulfilled promptly. While the exact timeline for restoration remains uncertain, the renewed focus on statehood underscores its enduring relevance in Jammu and Kashmir’s political discourse.

The situation remains fluid, with the central authorities expected to weigh various factors before making a final decision. For now, the call for early restoration continues to resonate across party lines, highlighting the enduring importance of statehood in the region’s political landscape.

Source: Hindustan Times