Chief Minister Omar Abdullah said his party, the National Conference, is not under pressure to join the BJP-led NDA. He is hopeful that Jammu and Kashmir will soon get back its statehood, which is a big challenge for his government.
Abdullah dismissed rumors about pressure from the BJP or changes in his party’s beliefs. He said there is no pressure from Prime Minister Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah, or the Raj Bhawan to change their views.
He has been assured by the prime minister and home minister that his government will be stable and get support like before. Abdullah emphasized he is focused on working for the people.
When asked if his government would go to court for statehood restoration, Abdullah said fighting should be the last option. He believes in giving the central government a chance to fulfill their promises first.
Abdullah noted that the Supreme Court had also mentioned restoring statehood quickly. He thinks one year is enough time for this.
The chief minister talked about issues facing his new government, including sharing power with the lieutenant governor. He believes having two centers of power is not effective and prefers a single command structure.
Abdullah acknowledged differences between being a chief minister of a Union Territory and a state. He said it took time to understand how the UT government works.
In 2019, Article 370 was removed, changing J&K’s status to a Union Territory. The Supreme Court upheld this but stressed the need to restore statehood soon.
Reflecting on his government’s start, Abdullah said they are working on fulfilling election promises. He hopes J&K being a UT is temporary.
The government plans to create business rules after consulting with Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha. Abdullah encouraged citizens to seek help from local leaders or officials.
On protests over reservation, Abdullah said NC is a democratic party where members can express their views. He noted that protests have become a way for people to voice concerns directly to him.
A cabinet sub-committee will address reservation issues. Abdullah hopes MP Aga Syed Ruhullah Mehdi will support statehood restoration in Parliament.
Abdullah expressed concern about job competition from outsiders and stressed the importance of saving local jobs.
Regarding public holidays for NC founder Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah and Martyr’s Day, Abdullah said such decisions can’t erase their legacy. He also mentioned creating a policy for hoteliers in Gulmarg affected by expired land leases.
