Srinagar: On the eve of the sixth anniversary of Article 370’s abrogation, Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah addressed growing speculation about the restoration of statehood to the Union Territory. Abdullah expressed cautious optimism about potential positive developments during the ongoing monsoon session of Parliament but firmly downplayed expectations of any immediate action. His comments come amid heightened buzz fueled by recent high-level meetings in New Delhi, though he clarified that his remarks were based on intuition rather than direct discussions with central government officials.
Abdullah stated, “I’ve heard every possible permutation and combination about what to expect in J&K tomorrow, so let me stick my neck out and say nothing will happen tomorrow fortunately nothing bad will happen, but unfortunately nothing positive will happen either.” He emphasized that his perspective was a “gut feeling” and noted he had not held any meetings or conversations with authorities in Delhi. Despite tempering expectations for August 5, he remained hopeful for progress on statehood restoration before the parliamentary session concludes.
The anticipation surrounding Jammu and Kashmir’s status stems from recent interactions involving Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah with President Droupadi Murmu, as well as Shah’s meetings with regional leaders. These developments have sparked widespread speculation, particularly as August 5 marks the day in 2019 when the Centre revoked Article 370, stripping Jammu and Kashmir of its special status and reorganizing it into two Union Territories Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh.
Abdullah’s remarks reflect a pragmatic stance, acknowledging the region’s complex political landscape while maintaining focus on the National Conference’s long-standing demand for statehood restoration. The party, alongside allies like Congress, has consistently advocated for reinstating Jammu and Kashmir’s state status since the 2019 reorganization. As the monsoon session progresses, all eyes remain on Parliament for any signs of movement on this critical issue.
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