Says he hopes statehood will be restored under PM Modi’s leadership; calls UT status a ‘demotion’
Diplomat Correspondent
Katra, (DD) In a heartfelt and politically charged address during the inauguration of the Srinagar-Katra Vande Bharat Express, Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah made a renewed call for the restoration of J&K’s statehood, expressing hope that the change will happen under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership.
“I was the Chief Minister of a state. Today, I’m the Chief Minister of a Union Territory. But I firmly believe this will be corrected very soon—under your leadership, Prime Minister,” Omar said, addressing PM Modi directly at the flag-off ceremony held at Katra Railway Station.
The occasion marked the inauguration of a key railway link connecting Katra to Srinagar—part of the larger Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL)—a major step in enhancing connectivity in the region. But Omar used the event to underline the region’s long-standing political demand.
Reflecting on his personal political journey, Omar drew a contrast with that of the present Lieutenant Governor. “If you look at Mr. Manoj Sinha’s journey—due to the blessings of the deity—he got a promotion. As for me, I experienced a slight demotion,” he said, eliciting laughter and applause.
Long Bond with J&K Rail Projects
Omar also spoke nostalgically about his association with J&K’s railway milestones. “Fate or coincidence, but I’ve always found myself connected with major railway events—whether it was the inauguration of Anantnag railway station or the Banihal tunnel opening.”
He recalled a moment from 2014 when PM Modi visited Katra after taking office. “It’s a coincidence—four of us were on stage back then, and all four are here today again,” he said, adding a personal and historical perspective to the day’s events.
The Chief Minister paid homage to former PM Atal Bihari Vajpayee for giving national importance to the Jammu–Baramulla railway project. “This project began in 1983–84. I told reporters recently that I was in class 8 then. Now I’m 55, my children are college graduates—and this dream is finally realised.”
Connectivity, Economy and Relief for Common People
Welcoming the new railway line as a vital development for the region, Omar highlighted its benefits during road closures caused by bad weather. “Whenever it rains and the highway shuts, airline fares skyrocket. From Rs 5,000, tickets shoot up to Rs 8,000. With this train, such exploitation will reduce.”
He also pointed out the potential boost to agriculture. “Our apples, cherries, and other produce can now reach the rest of India more easily—and hopefully, international markets too.”
Omar acknowledged the Centre’s infrastructure push, citing key projects such as the Jammu and Srinagar Ring Roads, Delhi-Amritsar-Katra Expressway, four-laning of the Jammu–Srinagar highway, and expansion of both Jammu and Srinagar airports. “We are committed to completing these projects and fulfilling your vision of ‘Viksit Jammu Kashmir, Viksit Bharat’,” he said.
Concluding his address, Omar extended his gratitude to the Prime Minister and said the people of Jammu and Kashmir were eager for progress—“with dignity, and with statehood restored.”(DD)
