Says J&K Lost Identity, Constitution, and Flag Six Years Ago
Diplomat Correspondent
Srinagar,(DD) Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Friday announced that his government will launch a door-to-door campaign across Jammu and Kashmir to gather public support for the restoration of the Union Territory’s statehood within the next eight weeks.
He said he, along with his colleagues, will visit every Legislative Assembly segment to collect signatures and thumb impressions from residents in favour of the demand.
“The Supreme Court has given eight weeks, and we will not let them go to waste. We will reach every segment and ensure no household or individual is left without endorsing this cause,” Omar said, adding that thumb impressions will be taken from those unable to sign.
Delivering his Independence Day address in Srinagar, the Chief Minister reflected on the changes since the abrogation of Jammu and Kashmir’s special status.
“It has been more than six years since the people of Jammu and Kashmir last heard their own representative from this platform. Back then, I was the Chief Minister of a state with its own identity, constitution, flag, and statehood. Today, all of that is gone.”
Omar said that although the return of democracy took time, the region now has an elected government. However, he expressed disappointment at the absence of any announcement on statehood during the national celebrations.
“We hoped for a significant announcement for J&K on August 15. I was even told that papers for statehood were being prepared. But nothing came,” he remarked.(DD)
