SRINAGAR: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Monday said that the restoration of statehood for Jammu and Kashmir remains a top priority for his government, adding that he will once again raise the matter during his meeting with Union Home Minister Amit Shah in New Delhi.
Speaking to reporters in Srinagar, Omar Abdullah said the process of restoring statehood is ongoing and cannot be achieved through a single round of discussions. He said the issue is being consistently raised in meetings with the Union Government and expressed hope that it would progress through continued engagement.
The Chief Minister said that, apart from statehood, several other key matters concerning Jammu and Kashmir would also be discussed with the Home Minister, including reservation-related issues, business rules, and matters referred to the Centre by the Lieutenant Governor’s administration.
He added that certain issues are better addressed through direct dialogue with the Union Home Minister, stating that all major concerns of the Union Territory would be placed before him during the forthcoming meeting in Delhi.
Responding to a question on powers related to telecom restrictions, Omar Abdullah said that authority over internet shutdowns, mobile service suspensions and telephone tapping should remain with the Lieutenant Governor as long as law and order and security remain under the LG administration.
He said such powers are directly linked to security and internal administration, which currently fall under the jurisdiction of the Home Department and the Lieutenant Governor.
The Chief Minister further noted that it would not be appropriate for the elected government to exercise such powers while responsibility for security remains outside its control.
Commenting on recent political developments in Delhi, Omar Abdullah congratulated the BJP-led alliance on forming the government, saying the required numbers were eventually secured after several rounds of deliberations.
He, however, remarked that as per a Supreme Court ruling, the Governor should first invite the single-largest party or alliance to form the government, adding that majority support is ultimately tested on the floor of the Assembly.
On speculation regarding a cabinet expansion or reshuffle, the Chief Minister dismissed concerns, stating that governance and development work are continuing without interruption.
He said that if any department is found lacking in performance, corrective steps will be taken accordingly, adding that any reshuffle or expansion would be undertaken at an appropriate time after consultation with the party leadership. (KNC)
