Statehood Restoration: CM Omar Abdullah Likely to Meet Home Minister Today

Srinagar: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah is set to meet Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Wednesday to discuss critical issues, including the long-awaited restoration of statehood.

This will mark Omar’s second meeting with the Home Minister since taking office as the Chief Minister of the Union Territory. During their first interaction, Omar received what he described as “positive assurances” regarding the Union Government’s commitment to restoring statehood.

While the government has reiterated its intent to return Jammu and Kashmir to statehood, it has yet to present a definitive timeline, leaving concerns unaddressed. Omar remains hopeful, however, that the promise will soon materialize.

In addition to the statehood issue, the Chief Minister is expected to highlight administrative challenges stemming from the lack of clearly defined governance protocols. More than two months into the new government, Jammu and Kashmir still lacks Transaction of Business Rules (TBR), which are essential for outlining the powers of the elected government and its authority over various departments.

The absence of these rules has reportedly created friction between the Chief Minister’s elected government and the Lieutenant Governor-led administration, resulting in confusion and overlapping authority. Resolving these dual-control challenges will likely be a priority in Omar’s discussions with the Home Minister.

The outcome of this meeting could provide critical clarity on the roadmap for statehood restoration and a more streamlined governance structure in the region.