Signature Campaign Launched for Jammu & Kashmir Statehood Restoration

In Poonch district's Mendhar constituency, Jammu and Kashmir Jal Shakti Minister Javed Ahmed Rana initiated a signature campaign on Sunday for the restoration of statehood to the Union Territory, fulfilling promises made by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah. This move comes as a response to the Supreme Court's recent directives.

During an Independence Day function in Srinagar, Abdullah expressed concerns over the region being punished for a crime in which its people had no part. He urges that within the eight-week timeframe set by the Supreme Court, the campaign will seek support across all 90 Assembly segments, ultimately presenting collected signatures to the apex court.

Rana, who also oversees Forest and Ecology, laments the central government's failure to restore statehood post-delimitation and Assembly elections. Emphasizing the National Conference's developmental efforts, he describes the dual power system as a significant obstacle, hindering effective governance in Jammu and Kashmir.

(With inputs from agencies.)