Imran Naikoo

Srinagar, 25 January: The Gulistan News Conclave 2025, themed ‘Badalta Jammu & Kashmir,’ commenced with Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah inaugurating the event.

In an exclusive conversation with Executive Editor Ishfaq Gowhar, CM Omar Abdullah covered a wide range of key issues, including the restoration of statehood, special status under Article 370, reservation, unemployment and economic development.

He also discussed the challenges of the dual power structure in the Union Territory, the relationship with the Centre and the governance approach under his leadership.

CM Omar Abdullah emphasized the importance of restoring Jammu and Kashmir’s statehood, a crucial part of his government’s manifesto. While acknowledging that some guarantees can be fulfilled under the Union Territory framework, he stated, “To fully deliver on our commitments, statehood is essential. Prime Minister Modi recently reiterated the restoration of statehood and we are determined to achieve it. Some goals require patience, but progress has already begun.”

Omar Abdullah added that the 12 guarantees promised in his election manifesto remain his government’s priority, despite the challenges of operating under a UT structure.

Addressing concerns over governance under dual control, Omar acknowledged the limitations of elected representatives in a Union Territory system. He pointed out, “Key administrative decisions like IAS and IPS transfers are controlled by the Raj Bhavan and central government. While this limits our authority, we are striving to work within this framework for the people’s welfare.” He expressed hope that these challenges would diminish once statehood is restored.

Omar Abdullah spoke candidly about the revocation of Articles 370 and 35A, which granted Jammu and Kashmir its special status. Omar expressed that the BJP spent years working to abrogate Articles 370 and 35A, making it a core part of their political agenda. He questioned the possibility of negotiating with the same party whose mission was to remove these provisions.
He further stated, “Governments change, and when a new government comes to power at the Centre, we will engage in dialogue. However, we cannot deceive the people. We will not compromise on this issue.”

When asked about the statehood and special status resolutions, CM Omar Abdullah referenced the resolutions passed by both the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly and the Cabinet. He stated that both resolutions, the one passed by the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly and the one by the Cabinet, are still valid and have not been rejected. In fact, when the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly passed a resolution calling for the restoration of the special status of the region, it was sent to the Centre and it was not rejected, unlike previous instances when similar resolutions were dismissed.

Omar Abdullah countered the opposition by asking, “Why wasn’t it said earlier, and what is missing now? There was a discussion on Jammu and Kashmir’s special status and constitutional guarantees. What do you actually want from this?”

He emphasized that the resolution was not just a political gesture but a strategic move aimed at preserving the rights and interests of Jammu and Kashmir.

The Chief Minister highlighted the need for a positive relationship with the central government for Jammu and Kashmir’s development. He said, “We expect the Centre to fulfill its promises, such as granting statehood and providing necessary financial assistance. A healthy partnership between the state and the Centre is key to progress.”

When questioned about the progress on his government’s manifesto promises, Abdullah candidly stated that some promises would take time due to structural limitations. “We are working hard to fulfill commitments, but some goals will only be achievable after statehood is restored. However, we are making progress on many fronts under the current framework,” he explained.

On the issue of prisoners, CM Omar Abdullah emphasized the ongoing discussions with both local police officers and the central government. He stated, “In this regard, all the issues we’ve raised along the way have been discussed. Now, the focus should shift towards the state government’s role and responsibility in addressing these concerns.”

The Chief Minister proudly highlighted the transparency within his government. He remarked, “We have not shied away from tough questions. No minister or official has ever refused to answer for their actions. Transparency starts from the top and trickles down. We believe in accountability, and our actions reflect this commitment.”
Abdullah stressed the need for a dual approach to tackle unemployment in Jammu and Kashmir. He outlined two key strategies, including transparent and fair recruitment processes to fill government vacancies and creating an enabling environment for private investment in industries like tourism, horticulture and manufacturing. He added, “Both tracks are crucial to address the pressing issue of unemployment effectively.”

Discussing the power sector, Omar Abdullah pointed out the high Aggregate Technical & Commercial (AT&C) losses, which stand at 50-55%. He compared this with neighboring states where losses are below 15%, urging systemic reforms. “We cannot sustain such losses. Fixing the system is imperative for ensuring reliable and affordable electricity for our citizens,” he said.
On the alleged corruption in the Srinagar Smart City project and the sudden transfer of ACB officers, Omar Abdullah stated, “The investigation authority and the involved officials were not under our control. Had they been, such instances might not have occurred. Nevertheless, we are committed to transparency and accountability.”

Reflecting on his government’s first 100 days, Omar noted that the milestone was not a target but an opportunity to reflect. He remarked, “Unlike previous governments, we assumed office after a significant gap of six years. Transitioning from a UT to an elected government posed unique challenges. Despite this, we have focused on building coordination between elected representatives, officials and the public.”

On speculations about tensions within the National Conference and with MP Agha Ruhullah, Omar dismissed the rumors, stating, “We are united. Recent meetings and collaborative efforts prove that any claims of internal discord are baseless.”

Addressing the contentious issue of reservations and recruitment policies, Omar Abdullah chose not to comment prematurely, saying, “I won’t comment on this matter because doing so prematurely could raise questions about my stance. When the Cabinet Sub-Committee hasn’t completed its work and the court hasn’t delivered its verdict, how can the Chief Minister speak on the issue?” he said.
Omar further stated, “I remember expressing my views early on a similar matter in the past, and I deeply regretted it later. This time, I won’t repeat that mistake. Let the Cabinet Sub-Committee and the High Court do their work. Once their decisions are out, I will share my perspective.”

“As for recruitment, it has been clarified that any recruitment during this period will follow due process. We will continue with recruitments, fully aware that once the court gives its verdict, it could impact the actions we take now,” he further added.