On Wednesday, Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah delivered a stark critique of his role, labeling his office as a symbol of “disempowerment.” He emphasized the disheartening transition from leading one of India’s most empowered states to overseeing a Union Territory with curtailed powers.
Speaking at an event organized by a national newspaper, Abdullah expressed his frustrations with the ongoing administrative structure in Jammu and Kashmir. He claimed that the frequent interference from the Lieutenant Governor’s office hampered governance and reiterated his demand for a definitive timeline regarding the restoration of statehood.
Abdullah articulated his uneasiness over the term “Union Territory,” expressing that it was difficult for him to couple it with Jammu and Kashmir. He criticized the officers for placing an exaggerated emphasis on the Union Territory status compared to the previous statehood.
He stated, “I hate being reminded that we are a Union Territory,” highlighting the stark shift in administrative power dynamics.
Concerns Over Power Distribution
In discussing the power imbalance, Abdullah criticized Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha for assuming roles typically associated with an elected government. He pointed out that Sinha holds the chairmanship of the Jammu and Kashmir Power Development Corporation, along with conducting tourism-related meetings.
“What business does someone responsible for security have holding a tourism meeting?” Abdullah questioned, underlining the misalignment between the elected government and the unelected governance structure.
He noted several pending cabinet decisions, including modifications to reservation percentages, awaiting clearance from the Lieutenant Governor, further illustrating the asymmetrical distribution of power.
“There is an asymmetrical allocation of power between the elected and unelected government,” he articulated, stressing the need for clarity on the governing structure.
Statehood and Article 370 Restoration
Turning to the issue of statehood, Abdullah reminded the central government of the three-step process it previously outlined—delimitation, elections, and the restoration of statehood. He articulated the urgency by stating, “Two steps are complete. Why are we made to wait for the third?”
He challenged the central leadership to provide a clear timeline on when they would adhere to the outlined path for restoration. “If it is when the BJP comes to power, then be honest so people can decide,” he remarked.
On the sensitive subject of Article 370, Abdullah asserted its restoration could only occur upon a change in government at the Centre. Therefore, he questioned the rationale behind seeking the return of an article from those who initially rescinded it.
“I remain committed to special status but will not fool the people with unrealistic promises,” he confirmed.
Governance and Radicalisation Concerns
Abdullah’s concerns extended to the ramifications of “hyper-nationalism” and collective punishment. He argued that practices like demolishing houses following attacks lead to radicalisation, stating, “You demolished houses post the Pahalgam attack only to find later that there was no Kashmiri involvement. If those people are radicalised, whose fault is it?”
He also noted recent incidents within sports and education sectors, where protests arose over alleged biases against Muslim candidates. Abdullah emphasized the danger in marginalizing entire communities, suggesting it cultivates unavoidable reactions.
National Political Landscape and EVM Debate
Addressing national politics, Abdullah characterized the INDIA bloc as being in a precarious state, often described as in the “ICU” or requiring “ventilator support,” particularly in absence of discussions surrounding Article 370.
He defended Congress leader Rahul Gandhi’s silence on the matter, suggesting that electoral realities influenced such positions. He stated, “I’d like him to win an election before having this conversation. In the present environment, he cannot win if he raises this issue.”
Breaking from previous assertions by his father, Farooq Abdullah, Omar disagreed with claims of EVM tampering. He stated, “We should own our defeats and correct our mistakes,” blaming constituency delimitation for any electoral setbacks.
Economic Insights and Environmental Concerns
Earlier, Abdullah also discussed pressing issues such as environmental degradation in the valley, citing pollution and extended dry spells in Srinagar. He highlighted that the region’s geography often exacerbates issues like smog.
At the same time, he aimed to clarify misconceptions regarding tourism being the primary economic driver, asserting that tourism ranks fourth in contributions to Jammu and Kashmir’s Gross State Domestic Product, trailing behind agriculture, horticulture, and industry.
