SRINAGAR, OCT 09: Newly elected MLA and National Conference (NC) Vice President, Omar Abdullah, emphasized that the first decision of the new cabinet in Jammu and Kashmir must be to pass a resolution for the restoration of statehood. Abdullah, who won both the Ganderbal and Budgam seats in the recently concluded Jammu and Kashmir Assembly elections, made these remarks while addressing reporters in Srinagar on Wednesday.
The NC-Congress alliance secured 42 seats in the Assembly, marking a significant victory. Abdullah expressed his gratitude to the voters, acknowledging their participation in the democratic process despite a prolonged period of political instability in the region. “I am very thankful to the voters of J&K who utilized their votes despite democracy being sidelined here for the last 8-10 years. Our responsibility begins now,” Abdullah said.
Reflecting on the promise of statehood restoration made by the central government, Abdullah added, “J&K was a state before 2019, and the restoration of statehood has been promised to us. The Prime Minister, Home Minister, and senior BJP leaders have repeatedly said that after delimitation and elections, statehood would follow. Now, with the elections done, statehood is the remaining step. I hope the first resolution of the new cabinet is to push for the restoration of statehood.”
Regarding relations with the central government, Abdullah stressed the importance of coordination with New Delhi. “Our issues and difficulties won’t be resolved by fighting with the Centre. While we may have political differences with the BJP, we must maintain proper relations with the Centre for the benefit of Jammu and Kashmir,” he stated.
When asked about which seat he would relinquish, Ganderbal or Budgam, Abdullah said, “I can’t retain both seats. I will consult my colleagues and make a decision soon.”
The NC leader also dismissed the idea of nominating five BJP members, stating it would not change the government’s position and would only lead to unnecessary conflict. Independent candidates, he revealed, were in discussions with the NC-Congress alliance and would likely join them, strengthening their majority.
Abdullah’s comments have set the tone for the upcoming legislative session, where the restoration of statehood is expected to be a key agenda item for the newly formed government.
