Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah made a bold political statement on Friday while sharing the stage with Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Katra. During the public event, Abdullah renewed his demand for the restoration of full statehood to Jammu and Kashmir. He candidly remarked that he had been “demoted”—referring to the transition from being the Chief Minister of a state to now leading a Union Territory. In contrast, he noted that Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha had been “promoted” from Minister of State to his current post, drawing a stark comparison that underscored his argument for reinstating J&K’s democratic status.
Despite the political undertones, Omar Abdullah also extended appreciation toward PM Modi for significantly improving infrastructure and connectivity in the region, especially highlighting the development of railway lines that are now linking Kashmir to broader India. He acknowledged the opening of the new Chenab Bridge and the Katra-Srinagar Vande Bharat train as transformative projects, while making it clear that such developmental achievements should not overshadow the larger democratic aspirations of the Kashmiri people.
This renewed push for statehood comes amid growing discourse on the political future of J&K. Omar Abdullah’s remarks appear to be aimed at both the central government and the international audience, signaling a continued assertion of regional identity. With the 2025 general elections looming, his statements carry added weight, possibly marking the beginning of a more assertive campaign to demand full political rights and representation for Jammu and Kashmir.
