SRINAGAR, FEBRUARY 17 (KNO): Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Tuesday said that complete satisfaction among the people of Jammu and Kashmir would come only with the restoration of statehood, expressing hope for a positive outcome through sustained dialogue with the Centre.
Speaking to reporters at the Sher-i-Kashmir International Conference Centre (SKICC), the Chief Minister said the process has taken longer than expected but discussions with the central government are ongoing.
“The process is continuing. It has taken longer than we had hoped, but we have not lost hope. Continuous dialogue is underway with the Centre, and hopefully, we will get positive news soon,” he said, according to Kashmir News Observer (KNO).
Welcoming the reopening of 14 tourist destinations, Omar said the move would help revive the tourism sector and benefit local communities. Referring to areas such as Yousmarg and Dodhpathri, he said residents had suffered losses due to prolonged closure.
“Our tourism season is beginning, and I hope people will benefit from the beauty of these destinations,” he added.
The Chief Minister also criticised the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), alleging discrepancies between its statements and actions. He referred to a pending 2021 case related to government land occupation and claimed that a significant portion of the Constituency Development Fund (CDF) meant for Jammu and Kashmir was being spent elsewhere.
On the power situation, Omar said the Union Territory is facing a 34 per cent electricity deficit, but assured that steps are being taken to minimise disruptions during ongoing works and the holy month. He added that inherited infrastructure gaps would be addressed through new projects.
The Chief Minister also said the government would implement a time-bound policy for regularisation, while urging people to avoid street protests, warning that unrest could negatively impact their future.
