Jammu, April 4 (NationPress) Jammu and Kashmir's Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah, expressed his enthusiasm on Saturday regarding the approval of the Private Universities Bill in the Legislative Assembly, labeling it a pivotal achievement for the region's youth.

“The passage of the Private Universities Bill today by the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly signifies a monumental advancement in establishing a promising future for our young population,” stated the Chief Minister.

The Assembly adopted the Jammu and Kashmir Private Universities Bill, 2026 (L.A. Bill No. 08 of 2026). Emphasizing its broader implications, Omar Abdullah noted that this law would create new opportunities for top-quality higher education within the Union Territory, minimizing the necessity for students to seek educational opportunities outside J&K, and enticing renowned institutions to establish campuses in the region.

He remarked that this initiative underscores the government's dedication to enhancing academic infrastructure, promoting innovation, and cultivating a dynamic ecosystem for education and research.

Omar Abdullah added that the bill's approval represents a crucial move towards positioning Jammu and Kashmir as a burgeoning center for higher education and scholarly excellence.

On the final day of the Budget Session, Education Minister Sakeena Itoo presented the Bill for consideration and passage. The Speaker subsequently conducted a voice vote, leading to its approval by the Assembly.

The Legislative Assembly also approved the Jammu and Kashmir Jan Vishwas Second (Amendment of Provisions) Bill, 2026 (L.A. Bill No. 07 of 2026).

This bill was introduced for review and approval by Agriculture Minister Javid Ahmed Dar on behalf of the Chief Minister.

During the discussion, the Minister stated, “This Bill aims to amend specific enactments, decriminalizing and streamlining offences to enhance living conditions and facilitate business operations, while also repealing certain laws (L.A. Bill No. 07 of 2026).”

Following this, the Bill was discussed and subsequently passed by the Assembly.

Members Nizam-ud-din Bhat, Balwant Singh Mankotia, Pirzada Farooq Ahmad Shah, and Tanvir Sadiq withdrew their proposed amendments after receiving assurances from the Minister.

At the conclusion of the Budget Session 2026–27, the Speaker Abdul Rahim Rather adjourned the J&K Legislative Assembly sine die.

Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Chaudhary and MLAs from various parties commended the Speaker for the orderly and disciplined management of the session.