National Conference leader Omar Abdullah stated that the restoration of statehood to Jammu and Kashmir is not a priority for his party in the Lok Sabha polls. He emphasized that his party is confident of achieving statehood due to commitments made by the prime minister and the Union home minister. Abdullah also highlighted the significance of the Lok Sabha election results on the forth coming assembly elections in the Union territory.
Abdullah reiterated that the focus of the party is not on statehood as it is assured, and questioned the necessity of prolonging discussions on this matter. He expressed his belief that the current government is dedicated to reinstating statehood, while also noting that in the event of a change in government, efforts will be made to secure full statehood before the assembly elections.
Home Minister Amit Shah had previously reassured the country in the Rajya Sabha that full statehood would be granted to Jammu and Kashmir at an appropriate juncture. Abdullah responded to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's remarks on the transformation of Jammu and Kashmir post the abrogation of Article 370 by suggesting that the BJP should have nominated candidates from Kashmir if they were committed to the region's development. Abdullah is contesting the Lok Sabha elections from Bararnulla, scheduled for voting on May 20.
