After presenting his first budget in the Assembly, Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah said his government is working with the central government on a plan to restore J&K’s statehood.
Speaking to reporters, Abdullah called a Union Territory (UT) with an assembly "the worst form of government." He said discussions on restoring statehood are ongoing, but he could not share a timeline yet.
When asked about his meetings with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah, and Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman since taking office in October last year, Abdullah questioned whether a timeline for statehood had been given to him.
He again emphasised that he believes a UT should either have no assembly or be a full-fledged state, adding that J&K does not meet the criteria to remain a UT. Regarding the central government’s budget allocation for J&K, Abdullah expressed gratitude, saying he appreciates what has been given and will ensure it is used properly.
On the issue of regularising daily wage workers and need-based employees, he acknowledged their concerns and said his government is committed to addressing them.
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