After securing a decisive majority in Jammu and Kashmir assembly elections, National Conference leader Omar Abdullah made a sweeping speech calling for unity and immediate restoration of statehood to the region.
Abdullah is set to play a major role in the formation of the new government, stressing the need to represent all sectors of J&K regardless of political affiliation.
In an interview with the media, Abdullah expressed gratitude to the people for the mandate but remained focused on the challenges ahead. “I am humbled by the mission that our people have given us, but I am also acutely aware of the responsibility that mission places upon us,” he said.
“The voices of the people of Jammu and Kashmir have been ignored since 2018. It is time we work for the benefit of all, not just those who voted for us,” he said.
In a clear message of inclusivity, Abdullah pledged to ensure that the new government would give a voice to underrepresented regions, particularly Jammu, which has fewer elected representatives in the national conference. “This will not be a government for any particular party or region; this will be a government for everyone in Jammu and Kashmir, whether they voted for us or not,” Abdullah said.
Abdullah also reiterated the National Conference’s long-standing demand for restoration of statehood to J&K, which was withdrawn in 2019 following the abrogation of Article 370.
“The first priority of the new cabinet must be to pass a resolution calling for the restoration of statehood,” he declared. “The chief minister, whoever he may be, should go to Delhi with this resolution and appeal to the senior leadership of the country to fulfill their promise. Statehood was promised to J&K and not to any particular party or government.”
Addressing the controversial issue of Article 370, Abdullah acknowledged the political reality but vowed to continue the discussion. “We’re not going to fool people by promising something we can’t deliver immediately,” he explained. “However, we will continue to discuss Article 370 and hope that future national governments will be willing to engage with us on this matter.”
Finally, Abdullah stressed the importance of adhering to democratic norms. “The decision on who will lead this administration is up to the coalition and legislators. I have always believed in doing things by the book and this process is no exception.”
As the National Conference and its coalition partners prepare for the legislative party meeting in the coming days, Abdullah stressed the need for a collective approach. “This is a moment of unity, not division. We must work together to rebuild trust and fulfill the aspirations of the people of Jammu and Kashmir.” (KNS)