Kashmir Impulse Desk

Rajouri, April 20 

Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Monday urged the federal government to clarify when statehood would be restored to the region, saying voters had backed the move and it was a key political commitment.

Addressing a public rally in Nowshera in Rajouri district, CM Omar said the restoration of statehood had been promised by the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and should follow elections in the region.

“The people have voted with the expectation that statehood will be restored. The government must clarify what it means by ‘appropriate time’ and when that time will come,” he said.

Jammu and Kashmir was reorganised into a union territory in 2019, with authorities indicating that full statehood would be restored at a later stage.

Abdullah accused the BJP of backtracking on its commitment and said delays were unjustified.

He also alleged that relatives of leaders from his National Conference were being targeted, saying the party’s political opponents were unable to challenge it on policy grounds.

The CM reiterated his government’s commitment to fulfil election promises, including welfare measures such as support for low-income families and workers.

He also criticised the federal government over its handling of legislation on women’s reservation, alleging delays and political motives.