SRINAGAR: Jammu and Kashmir Minister for Health and Education, Sakina Itoo, on Wednesday said that the restoration of statehood to the Union Territory remains the “primary and non-negotiable” objective of the National Conference (NC) government, asserting that the dispensation is committed to reinstating the status that existed before August 5, 2019.
Addressing a gathering to commemorate the death anniversary of her father and senior NC leader, the late Wali Muhammad Itoo, in the Noorabad area of Kulgam district, the minister said the government led by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah is working towards restoring the rights of the people.
“Our leader, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah’s mission, is to bring back the status quo of Jammu and Kashmir,” Minister Itoo said. “We have to give back the rights of the lands of Jammu and Kashmir. We have to bring back the employment of the youth. We have to bring back the assembly of Jammu and Kashmir, where the people of Jammu and Kashmir used to decide.”
She outlined the work undertaken by her government in the health and education sectors, often considered critical areas in a region that has witnessed decades of turmoil. She listed the upgradation of the Noorabad hospital and highlighted road construction and infrastructure projects as part of the administration’s development agenda.
The minister cautioned the public against divisive politics. “Today, some people have started shedding crocodile tears again. They are coming to the ground to deceive you again. They are the same people who snatched our rights from us, who snatched our land from us,” she said.
Urging people to remain vigilant, she appealed for continued support for the party and its leadership.
Acknowledging the constraints of the current administrative framework, the minister expressed hope that issues such as unemployment and other public grievances would be effectively addressed following the restoration of statehood.
“Today, it is very difficult to work under this government structure. However, God willing, I am hopeful that these circumstances will change,” she stated, while assuring the public of her unwavering commitment. “You do not need to worry. Today, I want to assure you that Sakina Itoo will always stand by you, in both your sorrows and your happiness.” (KNS)
