Omar Abdullah Launches J&K Statehood Signature Drive
In his Independence Day address at Bakshi Stadium, Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah announced an eight-week signature campaign across the Union Territory. The initiative is aimed at mobilizing public support for restoring full statehood to J&K.
Supreme Court Flags Security Concerns
The campaign comes after a Supreme Court hearing on August 14, where the court observed that incidents like the recent Pahalgam killings could not be overlooked while considering J&K’s statehood restoration. The court has sought a detailed response from the central government on the matter.
Political Reactions
The National Conference and the People’s Democratic Party criticized the Supreme Court’s remarks. Former Chief Minister Farooq Abdullah argued that regional terrorist attacks are a result of strained relations with Pakistan and should not be linked to the question of statehood.
Campaign Backed by CM’s Earlier Appeals
The signature drive adds to Omar Abdullah’s ongoing efforts, as he has repeatedly demanded the restoration of J&K’s statehood over the past year. The campaign is intended to put pressure on the central government by showing visible public backing for the cause.
