Early Times Report
Jammu, Jan 28: National Conference president and former chief minister Dr. Farooq Abdullah has reiterated that the restoration of Jammu and Kashmir’s statehood is a promise yet to be fulfilled by the central government.
Speaking on the matter, Dr. Abdullah emphasized that the people of Jammu and Kashmir are waiting for the Centre to honor its commitment, which was made after the abrogation of Article 370 and the bifurcation of the erstwhile state into two Union Territories in August 2019.
“The restoration of Jammu and Kashmir’s statehood is entirely in the hands of the Centre, and we are waiting,” Dr. Abdullah said. He underlined that this is not just a political demand but a matter of restoring the dignity and aspirations of the people of Jammu and Kashmir, who have been voicing their concerns since the reorganization of the region.
It is important to note that the Jammu and Kashmir Cabinet had already passed a resolution seeking the restoration of statehood. The resolution highlighted the broad-based demand of the people for a return to full statehood, which they see as essential for self-governance, regional autonomy, and addressing developmental challenges effectively.
On the other hand, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has repeatedly assured that statehood will be restored to Jammu and Kashmir at an “appropriate time.” This assurance has been reiterated on multiple occasions by central leaders, including the Home Minister, but no concrete timeline has been provided.
Dr. Abdullah "This is not just a political demand but a matter of restoring the dignity and aspirations of the people of Jammu and Kashmir, who have been voicing their concerns since the reorganization of the region."
Dr. Abdullah also called upon the political leadership and people of Jammu and Kashmir to remain united in their demand for statehood. He stressed that restoring statehood is not just a political or administrative issue but a step towards restoring the dignity and trust of the people in the democratic processes of the country.
He added that statehood would pave the way for addressing critical issues such as unemployment, infrastructure development, and governance, which require local decision-making and autonomy.
The restoration of statehood remains a highly sensitive and politically charged issue in Jammu and Kashmir. While the BJP’s promise of restoring statehood “at an appropriate time” keeps hopes alive, the lack of a definitive timeline has left the people waiting in anticipation.
Dr. Abdullah’s comments underscore the growing impatience among the people of Jammu and Kashmir, who see statehood as a necessary step to reclaim their identity and ensure their voices are heard in matters of governance and development.
As the wait continues, all eyes remain on the central government to take decisive action and fulfill its promise, bringing an end to the prolonged uncertainty and opening a new chapter for the region. | 