KNS
Srinagar, Dec 20: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Saturday said he has maintained a consistent political stand both in Delhi and in the Union Territory, asserting that he openly acknowledges the Centre’s support where it exists and speaks candidly where it has fallen short, particularly on the issue of restoration of statehood.
Speaking to reporters at Nowgam Railway Station, Omar dismissed allegations that he adopts different positions in different places. “I say this here and I say this everywhere. I am not among those who play politics or deceive people,” he said.
The Chief Minister said he does not hesitate to credit the central government when it extends support, but will also highlight its failures. “Where the central government has helped, I say that. Where the central government has been lacking, I say that too,” he said.
On the long-pending demand for statehood, Omar said the Centre has not responded meaningfully. “On the issue of statehood, the central government has given us nothing except complaints,” he remarked, adding that he would not make false statements merely to please anyone. “It would be wrong for me to lie just to keep someone’s heart,” he said.
Omar said he has raised the issue repeatedly at all forums, including meetings, public programmes and in the Assembly in both Srinagar and Jammu. “I have said this again and again,” he added.
The Chief Minister also criticised the replacement of a Mahatma Gandhi-linked scheme with the G. Ramji Bill, calling the removal of Gandhi’s name inappropriate. He questioned how such a revered name could be dropped and said the subsequent transfer of responsibility to states would adversely affect regions like Jammu and Kashmir.
He said several policy changes had been made in recent years, with states like J&K deriving little benefit from them.
On snowfall preparedness, Omar said the administration has completed arrangements across both Kashmir and Jammu divisions, especially in areas prone to snowfall. “I personally came to Srinagar and held a meeting. In all districts of the Valley and the mountainous areas of Jammu, preparations have been made,” he said.
He said the adequacy of these arrangements would become clear once snowfall begins. “Whether the preparations are enough or not, we will find out when the snowfall starts,” he said.
Urging people to remain patient, Omar said minor difficulties should be expected during snowfall. “Even if we face some problems, people should not complain because we have been waiting for this snow,” he said.
He added that snowfall would help reduce pollution and boost winter tourism. “The air will become cleaner, pollution will reduce and the winter tourist season will begin,” he said, adding that the administration has acted in advance to deal with the situation.
