J&K chief minister says developments across the LoC highlight the need to restore statehood and constitutional guarantees in Jammu and Kashmir
Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Saturday used his Independence Day address in Srinagar to renew his demand for restoration of the Union Territory’s statehood, while making a pointed reference to Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).
Speaking after hoisting the national flag at Bakshi Stadium, Abdullah said the situation across the Line of Control was a source of “pain, sorrow and worry”. He suggested that had Jammu and Kashmir’s special constitutional status and statehood not been changed in 2019, people in PoK might have been demanding to reconnect with the Indian side.
Abdullah said the developments in PoK had reinforced his belief that the decision taken by Sheikh Abdullah and other leaders to resist Pakistani raiders in 1947 was justified.
Referring to PoK residents, the chief minister said they were regarded as “our own” and pointed out that seats have been kept vacant for them in the Jammu and Kashmir legislative assembly, with the hope that they could one day occupy them.
His remarks come amid reports of protests and clashes in PoK and alleged use of force by Pakistani security personnel against demonstrators.
Abdullah also reiterated his government’s commitment to restoring Jammu and Kashmir’s statehood and constitutional safeguards. He said his administration would continue working to fulfil the aspirations of the people and take the region towards the vision for which earlier generations fought.
Note: Video is tweeted by ANI on X
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