Omar Abdullah Ready to Dissolve J&K Assembly if Statehood Restored
Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has signaled a major willingness to relinquish power, declaring he is prepared to recommend the dissolution of the Legislative Assembly and oversee fresh elections the moment full statehood is granted to the region. Speaking during a public engagement in Gulmarg on June 24, 2025, Abdullah emphasized that his primary commitment lies with the restoration of statehood—not retaining his position.
J&K Statehood
Abdullah’s stance stems from recent assurances by the central government regarding statehood, prompting speculation that dissolving the assembly may be a mandatory precursor to that process. “Let them do it,” he said, referring to the dissolution. “I have no attachment to my chair.” He dismissed reports suggesting such a requirement as “misinformation,” asserting they were planted to intimidate legislators and delay the move.
Assembly Dissolution
Clarifying his resolve, Abdullah stated he would formally write to the Lieutenant Governor the day after statehood is restored, recommending assembly dissolution. He underscored that threatening assembly members would not deter their efforts: “Statehood is our right, not a privilege.” His remarks were echoed by National Conference president Farooq Abdullah, who has warned that delays could prompt legal action through the Supreme Court.
Political Context
Omar Abdullah came to power in October 2024 after the landmark Legislative Assembly elections—the first since the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019. His coalition, led by the Jammu & Kashmir National Conference and supported by national allies, secured a decisive win in those polls.
The abrogation of Article 370 downgraded J&K from a state to a Union Territory in August 2019, dissolving legislative governance structures. While local and national leaders have since called for reinstatement, progress has been cautious.
Public and Legal Stakes
Abdullah’s readiness to seek fresh elections when statehood arrives highlights the democratic principle he is championing. He insists that the movement is driven by citizens’ rights—not political ambition. Any delay, he warned, could result in judicial intervention, as indicated by National Conference leaders.
Implications for Governance
If the assembly is dissolved, it would pave the way for elections under full state status—restoring legislative autonomy and resuming democratic processes. While the central leadership maintains that statehood will be reinstated “at an appropriate time,” many in Jammu and Kashmir, including Abdullah, warn against procrastination and fear political manipulation could stall it.
