Will Move SC over J&K Statehood Restoration Delay: Farooq Abdullah
The political uncertainty in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) continues to simmer, with the National Conference (NC) President Farooq Abdullah warning the Centre that his party will approach the Supreme Court if there is an inordinate delay in the restoration of statehood to the region. The statement comes as a significant development in the ongoing political stalemate in J&K, which has been a contentious issue since the Centre’s decision to abrogate Article 370 and reorganize the state into two UTs – Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh – in August 2019.
Abdullah’s warning comes at a time when the Centre has been dragging its feet on restoring statehood to J&K, despite repeated demands from the local population and political parties. In an interview with Hindustan Times, Abdullah said, “After the elections, people wanted their issues to be resolved immediately, but statehood (not being restored) is stopping us.” He emphasized that the people of J&K have been patiently waiting for the restoration of statehood, and if there is a further delay, his party will have no option but to approach the Supreme Court.
The NC President’s warning is not without merit, as the people of J&K have been facing immense difficulties since the Centre’s decision to abrogate Article 370. The move has led to a severe economic downturn, with many businesses and industries facing significant losses. The lack of statehood has also led to a power vacuum, with the Centre’s administration struggling to effectively govern the region.
Abdullah’s statement is also a reflection of the growing frustration among the people of J&K, who are demanding a return to the pre-2019 status quo. The restoration of statehood is seen as a crucial step towards addressing the region’s political and economic woes. The NC President’s warning is a clear indication that his party will not hesitate to take legal action if the Centre fails to address the people’s demands.
The Centre’s delay in restoring statehood to J&K can be attributed to several factors, including the ongoing political instability in the region and the Centre’s reluctance to concede to the demands of the local population. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has been pushing for the merger of J&K with the rest of India, which has led to tensions between the Centre and the local parties.
The NC President’s warning has also put the Centre on notice, as it is clear that the party will not hesitate to take legal action if the Centre fails to restore statehood to J&K. The Centre’s delay has already led to widespread protests and demonstrations in the region, with many calling for the restoration of statehood.
The restoration of statehood to J&K is not only a question of political autonomy but also a matter of economic and social development. The region has been facing significant challenges, including a decline in tourism, a lack of investment, and a severe economic downturn. The restoration of statehood is seen as a crucial step towards addressing these challenges and revitalizing the region’s economy.
In conclusion, Farooq Abdullah’s warning to the Centre is a clear indication that the people of J&K are not willing to accept a delay in the restoration of statehood. The Centre’s reluctance to concede to the demands of the local population has led to growing frustration and unrest in the region. The restoration of statehood is not only a question of political autonomy but also a matter of economic and social development. It is imperative for the Centre to take immediate action to address the people’s demands and restore statehood to J&K.
