Aims to Rebuild Trust in J&K’s First Elected Government Since Article 370’s Abrogation
TDD Correspondent
Srinagar,(TDD) ,Jammu and Kashmir’s Chief Minister-designate Omar Abdullah today visited the grave of his grandfather, Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah, in Srinagar, paying his respects ahead of his historic swearing-in ceremony.
Sheikh Abdullah, fondly known as “Sher-e-Kashmir,” was the region’s first Prime Minister following its accession to India and later served as Chief Minister.
As Omar prepares to lead the first elected government in Jammu and Kashmir since the abrogation of Article 370 and the state’s reorganization into a Union Territory, Omar Abdullah emphasized the immense responsibility his administration faces. “We have a lot to do,” he remarked, acknowledging that the people of the region have felt unheard for the last six years. His message was clear: the new government’s mission is to rebuild trust with the people and ensure they are listened to.
Reflecting on the unique trajectory of his political career, Omar noted the significance of his role: “I was the last chief minister of J&K to serve a full six-year term. Now, I will be the first CM of this Union Territory. My hope is that this status is temporary and that we can work toward restoring statehood for J&K.” He highlighted that cooperation with the central government would be key to solving the region’s challenges.
The swearing-in ceremony, set to take place at the Sher-e-Kashmir International Convention Centre (SKICC), will see Omar Abdullah and his council of ministers officially assume their roles. Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha will administer the oath of office.
This marks the end of an extended period of Presidential rule, which began in 2018 after the collapse of the coalition government between the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Mehbooba Mufti’s People’s Democratic Party (PDP). With the recent assembly polls paving the way for the formation of a new government, Omar Abdullah’s return to power signifies a new chapter for Jammu and Kashmir’s political landscape.
Omar, who previously served as Chief Minister from 2009 to 2015, also brings experience from his time as Union Minister of State for External Affairs in Atal Bihari Vajpayee’s government. As he takes the helm once more, expectations are high that his leadership will address long-standing grievances and push for greater autonomy for the region.
In a personal message from LG Manoj Sinha, shared by Omar Abdullah, the Lieutenant Governor extended his best wishes for a “highly productive tenure” and expressed hope for the success of the new government in addressing the pressing needs of the people.
High-profile leaders from the opposition INDIA Bloc, including Akhilesh Yadav, Prakash Karat, Supriya Sule, and Kanimozhi, have already arrived in Srinagar to witness the swearing-in ceremony, signaling the national importance of this political shift.
As Omar Abdullah steps into this crucial role, all eyes are on whether his leadership can bring about the long-awaited change and restore a sense of ownership and dignity to the people of Jammu and Kashmir.(TDD)
