Omar Abdullah Criticizes Governance, Launches Campaign for Jammu & Kashmir Statehood Restoration
🖼️ Image credit: indianexpress.com
📂 Category: Politics
📰 Source: indianexpress.com
🗓️ Published: 2025-08-15T15:02:31+05:30
Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, in his first Independence Day speech since returning to office, expressed growing frustration over the delay in restoring statehood to the region.
He criticized the current dual governance system as inherently flawed, hindering effective governance and preventing his government from implementing key decisions.
Abdullah cited instances where cabinet decisions were stalled or ignored by the Raj Bhavan (Governor's office), likening the situation to a horse with its legs tied, unable to run freely.
He referenced the Supreme Court's consideration of the Pahalgam terror attack as a factor in delaying statehood, arguing that punishing the entire population for the actions of a few is unjust.
Despite previous assurances from the Centre, Abdullah admitted waning hope for a swift resolution, announcing a signature campaign to garner public support for the restoration of statehood and directly appeal to Delhi for action.
National Conference president Farooq Abdullah also voiced support for the campaign, expressing mixed emotions on Independence Day..