In a significant development, the Centre is likely to initiate the process of restoring statehood to Jammu and Kashmir, more than five years after the region was stripped of its statehood and special status under Articles 370 and 35A. Sources revealed that the discussions are underway following a key meeting between Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and Union Home Minister Amit Shah.
Key Meeting Between Omar Abdullah and Amit Shah
During a cordial half-hour meeting in New Delhi, Shah assured the Centre’s full support to the newly elected Jammu and Kashmir government, according to sources. The Union Home Minister emphasized that the process of restoring statehood would begin soon, marking a significant step towards addressing the demands of the people of Jammu and Kashmir.
“The home minister assured the Centre’s full support to the newly elected government and to initiate the process of restoration of statehood to Jammu and Kashmir,” said sources close to the matter.
This meeting comes after the first cabinet meeting of the newly elected J&K government, during which a resolution was passed demanding the restoration of statehood. The resolution, cleared by Lt. Governor Manoj Sinha, underscored the importance of reclaiming the constitutional rights and identity of the people of Jammu and Kashmir.
A Step Toward Healing and Restoring Constitutional Rights
The cabinet resolution emphasized that restoring statehood would mark the beginning of a “healing process” for the people of Jammu and Kashmir. “The restoration of statehood will be the beginning of the healing process, reclaiming constitutional rights and protecting the identity of people of Jammu and Kashmir,” the resolution stated.
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah is also scheduled to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi this evening to submit a copy of the resolution. The meeting with the Prime Minister is being viewed as a major step in ensuring the smooth functioning of the newly formed government, particularly given that the Lt. Governor retains control over key matters such as police and law enforcement in the region.
Protecting Jammu and Kashmir’s Unique Identity
In addition to calling for statehood, the J&K cabinet resolution reiterated the government’s commitment to safeguarding the unique identity and constitutional rights of the people. Before the abrogation of Articles 370 and 35A, the people of Jammu and Kashmir had exclusive rights over land ownership and employment, which were integral to preserving the region’s distinct identity.
The formation of the new government comes after over six years of President’s rule in Jammu and Kashmir. There is a strong desire among the local population for the restoration of statehood, as well as constitutional safeguards to protect land and job rights for residents.
Constructive Relationship with the Centre
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has made it clear that he does not want any confrontation with the Centre. Speaking after taking office, he emphasized the importance of maintaining a cooperative relationship with the Union government for the good governance and development of Jammu and Kashmir.
“Jammu and Kashmir, with its complex security situation and proximity to the border, cannot afford a confrontation between the state government and the Centre. I’m looking forward to a constructive relationship in the true spirit of federalism,” Mr. Abdullah stated.
The restoration of statehood is seen as a crucial step towards restoring normalcy in the region and addressing long-standing grievances of its people.
