A sharp exchange of words broke out between Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah over the issue of restoring statehood to the Union Territory. The disagreement came to light during the J&K UT Foundation Day celebrations on Friday.
LG Sinha said that the elected government cannot use the demand for statehood as an excuse for poor performance. He stated that the administration already has all the powers needed to function effectively. Quoting Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Sinha reminded that the Centre’s plan remains clear — first delimitation, then elections, and finally, restoration of statehood at an appropriate time.
“But some people still make excuses,” Sinha said. “When elections were held, everyone knew it was for a Union Territory assembly. The government should not mislead people and must work for their welfare.”
Responding sharply, CM Omar Abdullah accused the Centre of creating obstacles that make it difficult for his administration to work smoothly. “We do not make excuses. We are performing despite the hurdles created for us,” Abdullah said at a public event in Eidgah.
He pointed out several issues like unemployment, reduced GST revenue, and a fall in tourism and handicraft sales. Abdullah blamed these problems on recent security failures, including the April 22 terrorist attack in Pahalgam that killed 26 tourists. “Who is responsible for security here? It is not in my hands,” he said, adding that during his previous tenure as chief minister, such attacks never happened.
Abdullah also demanded that the Centre fulfil its promise of restoring J&K’s statehood, as assured in Parliament and before the Supreme Court. “Why are they so afraid of statehood? Why don’t they want to let go of power?” he asked.
The clash highlights ongoing tensions between the Union Territory administration and the elected government, as Jammu and Kashmir continues to wait for the return of full statehood.
Also Read: Assam BJP Calls Priyank Kharge ‘Teddy Boy’ Amid War of Words
