Shazia shah | Kashmir Pen
Srinagar, Sept 13: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah reiterated that the restoration of Jammu and Kashmir’s statehood is a non-negotiable demand and said that there can be “no compromises” on the aspirations of the people.
Speaking to reporters in Srinagar, Omar stressed that the people of J&K have time and again voiced their desire for the immediate restoration of statehood, which was downgraded after the abrogation of Article 370 in August 2019. “We will not accept half measures. Statehood is our right and it must be restored in full. There is no room for compromises when it comes to the dignity of our people,” he said.
The Chief Minister asserted that his government will continue to raise the issue at every possible platform, both within the Union Government and outside. “The Centre has repeatedly made assurances about restoring statehood. It is time to move from promises to action,” Omar remarked.
He further maintained that a democratic system cannot truly function in J&K unless statehood is reinstated. “Without statehood, accountability suffers and people feel alienated. This issue is central to rebuilding trust and strengthening democracy here,” he added.
Omar also urged political parties across the spectrum to rise above partisan considerations and speak with one voice. “This is not about one party or ideology—it is about the people of Jammu and Kashmir. Together we must ensure that statehood is restored without delay,” he concluded | Kashmir Pen
