Why is Statehood for J&K Being Delayed by the BJP?
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Synopsis
In a recent address, J&K Chief Minister Omar Abdullah raised concerns over the BJP's delay in restoring statehood to Jammu and Kashmir. He emphasized the importance of statehood for empowering the elected government and discussed various initiatives aimed at aiding farmers and public welfare.
Key Takeaways
- Statehood delay attributed to the BJP.
- Restoration of Darbar Move signifies commitment to tradition.
- Government support for farmers facing crop losses.
- Ongoing discussions with the Centre for relief packages.
- Importance of law and order in governance.
Srinagar, Oct 17 (NationPress) The Chief Minister of J&K, Omar Abdullah, expressed on Friday that the delay in granting statehood to J&K is attributed to factors known only to the BJP.
While addressing journalists in the Kulgam district of South Kashmir, Omar Abdullah emphasized his persistent efforts to reinstate statehood for J&K, aiming to empower the elected government further.
He specifically criticized the BJP, stating, “The postponement of statehood for J&K is due to reasons only the BJP is aware of.”
Regarding his administration's initiative to revive the long-standing tradition of transferring key government offices between Srinagar and Jammu on a biannual basis, known as the ‘Darbar Move’, the Chief Minister remarked, “This was a commitment made to the populace, and we have delivered on it.”
This practice, which involved relocating the civil secretariat, the Chief Minister, his cabinet members, and other senior officials to Jammu in winter and back to Srinagar in summer, was halted by Lt Governor Manoj Sinha in 2021.
Under Omar Abdullah’s governance, it has been decided that the civil secretariat will close in Srinagar on October 31 and resume operations in Jammu on November 3.
Each government employee participating in the Darbar Move will receive a relocation allowance of Rs 25,000.
Reaffirming his call for statehood, Omar stated, “We anticipated that the central government would restore statehood within a year. The reasons for this delay remain unclear — only the BJP possesses that knowledge. Nonetheless, our struggle for it will persist,” he emphasized.
Discussing the reservation regulations, he indicated that the cabinet sub-committee led by Sakeena Itoo has completed its final report, which has received approval. “A cabinet memo is being prepared for distribution and will be forwarded to the Lt Governor for endorsement,” he added.
The Chief Minister also addressed the challenges faced by farmers due to the ongoing drought followed by flooding. He remarked that immediate government action is required without waiting for the Assembly’s intervention.
“We have completed assessments wherever agricultural or horticultural crops have suffered damage. Discussions with the Centre are ongoing for a relief package, akin to those provided to other states. J&K equally deserves such assistance,” he noted.
On the topic of the revocation of FIRs filed during the COVID-19 restrictions, Omar remarked, “The current law and order situation is not under the control of the elected government. Once we regain those authorities, we will honor our additional commitments as well.”
Omar’s office later shared on X that the CM toured various stalls established by different departments in Kulgam.
“The Chief Minister visited booths set up by various departments in Kulgam, showcasing significant government initiatives, public welfare programs, and achievements under flagship projects,” the post stated.
“He engaged with officials and beneficiaries, commending their efforts toward ensuring citizen-focused governance and effective service delivery,” the CM’s office reported on X.
Point of View
The ongoing discourse surrounding statehood for Jammu and Kashmir remains a critical issue. The sentiments voiced by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah reflect the aspirations of the local populace. It is vital for the central government to address these concerns transparently and work towards the empowerment of the region through legislative action.
NationPress
17/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is statehood important for J&K?
Statehood is crucial for Jammu and Kashmir as it empowers the elected government, allowing it to make significant decisions for the welfare of the residents.
What is the Darbar Move?
The Darbar Move is a traditional practice of transferring key government offices between Jammu and Srinagar biannually, ensuring governance throughout the year.
What support is the government providing to farmers?
The government is assessing damage to crops and is in discussions with the Centre to secure a relief package to support farmers affected by adverse weather conditions.
What was Omar Abdullah's stance on COVID-19 FIRs?
Omar Abdullah noted that the current law and order situation is not under the elected government, and once powers are regained, they will address the FIRs from the COVID-19 restrictions.
How will the restoration of statehood affect governance?
Restoring statehood will enhance the powers of the elected government, enabling it to address local issues more effectively and respond to the needs of the populace.
