National Conference president and former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Farooq Abdullah has renewed his demand for the restoration of statehood to Jammu and Kashmir, stating that it is a promise made by Prime Minister Narendra Modi not only to the people of the Union Territory but also before the world.
Speaking to reporters, Abdullah said that the people of Jammu and Kashmir continue to wait for the Centre to honour its commitment. He emphasized that the restoration of statehood was repeatedly assured by the Prime Minister and the Union Government following the reorganization of the erstwhile state in August 2019.
“Statehood restoration is Prime Minister Modi's promise to the world. We are waiting for it,” Abdullah said, adding that the demand is not political but relates to the democratic rights and aspirations of the people of Jammu and Kashmir.
The National Conference leader's remarks come amid ongoing discussions regarding the future political roadmap for the Union Territory. Since the abrogation of Article 370 and the bifurcation of the former state into the Union Territories of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh, several political parties have consistently called for the restoration of full statehood.
Abdullah said that while elections and democratic processes are important, restoring statehood remains a key issue for the people. He argued that an elected government with full state powers would be better positioned to address local concerns and accelerate development.
The Centre has on multiple occasions stated that statehood will be restored at an appropriate time. During proceedings before the Supreme Court and in public statements, Union government representatives have reiterated their commitment to restoring statehood after the completion of the necessary administrative and political processes.
Political observers note that the issue remains one of the most significant subjects in Jammu and Kashmir's political discourse. Parties across the political spectrum, despite differing views on Article 370 and other constitutional matters, have broadly supported the restoration of statehood.
Abdullah also expressed hope that the promise would be fulfilled soon, saying that people have shown patience and faith in the democratic process. He urged the Centre to take a clear decision and provide a timeline for restoring Jammu and Kashmir's statehood status.
The statement is expected to reignite debate over the future political structure of Jammu and Kashmir, with regional parties likely to continue pressing the issue in the coming months. As discussions continue, the restoration of statehood remains one of the most closely watched political questions in the Union Territory.
