“Statehood Restoration is Non-Negotiable”
CM Reiterates UT Status is Temporary, Calls for Swift Action
Commits to People’s Mandate, Protecting Local Jobs and Land
“Ready to Relocate NIT from Pulwama if Locals Oppose”
“Aga Ruhullah led Protest outside my house as democratic right, Should Lead Parliament Protest for Statehood”
Srinagar: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has urged the Government of India to fulfill its promise of restoring statehood, reminding them of their commitment during the Article 370 hearing in the Supreme Court. “The Union Territory status is a temporary phase. It has been over a year since this assurance, and I believe ‘as soon as possible’ is long overdue,” Omar said during a press conference at SKICC.
The Chief Minister emphasized that respecting the people’s mandate is the government’s top priority. “The people participated in large numbers during the recent polls, and it is now our responsibility to deliver on our promises. Several issues have been addressed, but many will only be resolved after statehood is restored,” he stated.
Omar Abdullah addressed concerns regarding the establishment of a National Institute of Technology (NIT) in Pulwama, reassuring locals that their agricultural land would be protected. “If the people of Pulwama do not want the NIT in their district, we are prepared to move it elsewhere. Several other districts are eager to host the institute,” he said.
Omar Responding to a recent protest led by MP Syed Aga Ruhullah over reservation issues, Omar said, “It is good that MP Ruhullah protested outside my residence, but now I hope he will lead a similar protest in Parliament to advocate for the restoration of J&K’s statehood.”
Omar affirmed his government’s respect for democratic rights and revealed that a cabinet subcommittee has been formed to resolve reservation disputes. “We have assured student delegations that a solution will be found within six months. Our priority is to safeguard local jobs to prevent them from being taken by outsiders,” he added.
The Chief Minister reiterated his government’s commitment to protecting local employment opportunities. “Without reservation safeguards, there is a risk of outsiders taking over local jobs. This is something we are determined to prevent,” he said, adding that the High Court is also reviewing the matter.(KNS)
