Farooq Abdullah Warns Supreme Court Appeal Looms Over J&K Statehood Delay

Former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister and National Conference (NC) president Farooq Abdullah has issued a strong warning, stating that his party might be compelled to approach the Supreme Court if the process of restoring statehood to Jammu and Kashmir continues to be postponed.

Abdullah expressed his concerns while speaking to reporters, emphasizing that it's been eight months since the current Jammu and Kashmir government was established. He is hopeful that with the restoration of statehood, administrative powers will also be reinstated. He stated, "Our stand is that we are waiting for J&K statehood. But if there are delays, we will have no option but to go to the Supreme Court."

This announcement from Abdullah coincides with persistent efforts from the NC to regain both statehood and the special status of Jammu and Kashmir, which were annulled by the Centre in August 2019 following the revocation of Article 370. The abrogation also resulted in the bifurcation of the state into two Union Territories: Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh.

The NC's firm stance follows a meeting held by its Working Committee at the party headquarters in Srinagar, chaired by Farooq Abdullah. The committee adopted seven resolutions centered around crucial political, security, and civil rights issues, with the restoration of special status and statehood being the focal point. "The Working Committee unanimously reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to the restoration of Jammu and Kashmir's special status. This is pivotal to the aspirations and dignity of the people and must be addressed without further delay," the resolution stated.

The party reiterated its demand for the restoration of full statehood, referring to promises made in Parliament and by the Supreme Court. "The Working Committee also urged the Government of India to restore full statehood to Jammu and Kashmir immediately, as promised on the floor of Parliament, echoed in the public domain, and committed by the Constitution Bench of the Supreme Court," the NC asserted.

On another note, Farooq Abdullah turned his attention to the escalating tensions in the Middle East, urging all involved parties to practice restraint. He stated, "I pray that God gives wisdom to Iran and Israel both. Trump should talk about peace. This conflict can only be solved with peace," highlighting the necessity for diplomatic resolutions amid growing hostilities.

(With inputs from agencies.)