SRINAGAR, OCT 11: National Conference (NC) Vice President Omar Abdullah met Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Friday at Raj Bhawan to formally stake claim for forming the government in Jammu and Kashmir. This development comes after the Congress Legislature Party extended its support to the NC for government formation in the Union Territory.
Speaking to the media after the meeting, Omar Abdullah stated that he has requested the Lieutenant Governor to fix a date for the oath-taking ceremony, which could possibly be held on Wednesday. “I met the LG and handed over letters of support from the Congress, CPI(M), AAP, and independent members. I requested him to fix a date for the swearing-in ceremony so that the government can start functioning,” he said.
Abdullah mentioned that the process of government formation would take time due to the current central rule in the Union Territory. “The LG will first send the documents to Rashtrapati Bhawan and then to the Home Ministry. We have been told it will take 2-3 days. If all goes as planned, we will have the swearing-in ceremony on Wednesday,” he added.
Addressing concerns about the new government’s inclusivity, Abdullah assured that Jammu would not be ignored. “All I want to say is that Jammu will not be ignored in this government,” he emphasized.
Earlier in the day, NC President Farooq Abdullah said the party would seek an appointment with Raj Bhawan to formally stake claim for government formation. Expressing optimism, he mentioned that the NC-Congress alliance, which also includes the CPI(M), will notify their allies about the oath-taking ceremony once the date is confirmed.
Speaking about the challenges ahead, Farooq Abdullah emphasized the need to earn the trust of the people of Jammu and Kashmir and counter false propaganda. He urged for cooperation from the Central government to address the pressing issues faced by the people in the region.
“It is not the fault of the people of Jammu. They have been fed misinformation that stone-pelting and terrorism will increase. But the reality is their lands and jobs have been taken away. We want to clear this propaganda from their hearts and work towards prosperity. We need the Centre’s support in tackling the big problems we face,” he said.
Farooq Abdullah also reiterated the demand for the restoration of statehood, emphasizing that a Union Territory government may have limited powers. “That is why we are seeking restoration of statehood so the government can function effectively. After all, this is the crown of India, and if the crown isn’t shining, how will the country shine?” he remarked.
He also dismissed any rumors of differences between the NC and its alliance partner, the Congress, regarding the formation of the new government.
