BJP Downplays Omar Abdullah-Led Cabinet Resolution for Jammu and Kashmir Statehood

Jammu and Kashmir BJP leader Altaf Thakur has downplayed the significance of the recent resolution passed by the Omar Abdullah-led cabinet regarding statehood for Jammu and Kashmir. Thakur claimed that Abdullah’s move was an attempt to remain relevant among the public.

Central Government’s Commitment

In an interview with ANI, Thakur reiterated the central government’s commitment to restoring statehood for Jammu and Kashmir, citing statements made by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah. “The central government has already expressed its commitment to restore the statehood. The Prime Minister and the Home Minister have expressed their commitment, and we are confident that statehood will be restored,” he stated.

In a similar vein, Jammu and Kashmir JD(U) president GM Shaheen dismissed the importance of the cabinet resolution. He emphasized that the commitment for statehood lies with the Government of India. “It does not matter whether the cabinet passes the resolution or not. But it will be good if you get the status of a full state,” Shaheen told ANI. He compared the situation to Delhi’s status, implying that statehood would not significantly alter the governance landscape.

Omar Abdullah’s Recent Developments

Omar Abdullah took oath as the first Chief Minister of the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir on Wednesday. He previously served as the Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir from 2009 to 2014. His party, the National Conference (NC), along with Congress, secured a majority in the assembly polls held after a ten-year gap, winning 42 and six seats, respectively. The BJP performed strongly, securing 29 seats, while the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) won three. Independent candidates and smaller parties also claimed several seats.

The results of the three-phased elections in Jammu and Kashmir were announced on October 8. This marked the first election in the region following the abrogation of Article 370, which had previously granted special status to Jammu and Kashmir.