Omar Abdullah suggests winding up the INDIA bloc if it is only for Lok Sabha elections.
*CM asserts UT status is not permanent.
Sanjeev Pargal
JAMMU, Jan 9: In two pivotal remarks, National Conference president Dr. Farooq Abdullah indicated a desire to collaborate with New Delhi to resolve the challenges facing Jammu and Kashmir, while Chief Minister and party vice president Omar Abdullah expressed disappointment over the ambiguity surrounding the leadership and agenda of the INDIA bloc. He stated that the Alliance should be dissolved if it is solely intended for the parliamentary elections.
Both leaders made their statements independently while addressing reporters during two events.
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“We do not seek conflict with New Delhi; instead, we aspire to collaborate to resolve the issues plaguing Jammu and Kashmir. Let those who wish to contend do so,” Farooq stated to the press.
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Responding to questions regarding Omar being labeled a “New Delhi man,” tensions within the INDIA bloc as AAP and Congress choose to contest Delhi elections separately, and the dual governance structure in J&K, Farooq emphasized that both the Central and J&K Governments should prioritize the needs of the populace instead of engaging in conflicts that impede progress. He reaffirmed that Omar, as an elected Chief Minister, does not operate under any external directives, urging those misunderstanding this to reconsider.
Farooq clarified that the NC has no affiliations with the BJP and expects the Central Government to assist State Governments in addressing local concerns. “We are not allied with the BJP, nor do we desire any association with them,” he noted.
Meanwhile, responding to queries after an orientation program for MLAs, Omar commented on AAP and Congress contesting separately in Delhi and several INDIA bloc allies supporting claims that the Alliance is exclusively for Lok Sabha elections. “There was no specific timeline established for the Alliance, but the pressing concern is the lack of meetings being convened by INDIA bloc. Its continuity remains uncertain,” he stated.
He expressed that post-Delhi Assembly elections, the INDIA bloc should convene to discuss its future; if it’s only meant for Lok Sabha elections, then it should be disbanded, allowing each party to move forward independently. However, if it is intended for Assembly elections as well, collaboration will be essential, he added.
Farooq articulated that the INDIA bloc represents more than just electoral contests; it aims to fortify the nation and eliminate divisiveness.
“This alliance is not temporary; it is ongoing — for everyday matters and every moment.”
Concerned about rising unemployment in Jammu and Kashmir, the NC leader called it a vital issue in the area. “How can we address people’s problems when unemployment rates are alarmingly high? Our medical facilities and educational institutions are in dire straits; we require teachers, doctors, and paramedics, yet we are preoccupied with unnecessary confrontations,” he stated.
In response to inquiries regarding the dual governance structure, Farooq reiterated the demand for restoration of Statehood, affirming that stability in Jammu and Kashmir would be achieved once full statehood is reinstated.
During the MLAs’ orientation program, Omar remarked that many have previously served in the House when Jammu and Kashmir was still a State, but the current system differentiates significantly. “We must grasp how to operate and understand the powers of this Assembly,” he noted.
“The Deputy Chairman of Rajya Sabha participated in this initiative. I believe the insights of senior members will be invaluable. In future sessions, MLAs will be better equipped to represent their constituents and address their concerns effectively,” he added.
Omar voiced hopes that the Union Territory status of Jammu and Kashmir is not a permanent situation and expressed confidence that the BJP-led Central Government would honor its commitment to restore Statehood. He emphasized the importance of understanding the differences in context and limitations between a Union Territory Assembly and a State Assembly, urging new legislators to integrate into their roles within the Union Territory Assembly until Statehood is reinstated.
“The Central Government promised the people of Jammu and Kashmir that Statehood would be restored, and we trust they will uphold that promise,” Abdullah remarked during the orientation program for legislators.
He underscored the necessity for legislators to become accustomed to the unique challenges presented by a Union Territory Assembly’s operations. Commending Speaker Abdul Rahim Rather for organizing the orientation, he highlighted its significance for both new and experienced lawmakers.
“I have been elected six times in various capacities — three times to Parliament and three times to the Assembly. Yet this is my first experience with an orientation program like this,” Omar admitted, reflecting on his own journey and recognizing that his early years as a Parliamentarian lacked adequate groundwork.
“Had such an orientation program been held when I was initially elected to Parliament, I would have been better prepared. Even today, I find it challenging to explain how to introduce a private member’s bill or raise issues under Rule 377, despite my years of experience,” he remarked.
When discussing the dynamics within a Union Territory Assembly, Omar stated, “Even respected senior members, such as Abdul Rahim Rather (Speaker), who has served seven times, are encountering this for the first time. Previously, this was a State Assembly; now, we have been elected to the Union Territory Assembly of Jammu and Kashmir for the first time.”
He stressed the importance of comprehending the new operational framework, noting, “The functioning and regulations of a Union Territory differ significantly, and effective learning will require time.” He encouraged legislators to leverage the orientation program to address this knowledge gap.
The Chief Minister expressed optimism for maintaining decorum in the Assembly while recognizing that disruptions are inevitable.
“I can advocate for avoiding disruptions and upholding decorum, yet it is crucial to accept that such interruptions will occur. The tranquility witnessed today may very well be a rare occurrence,” he quipped.
Omar drew upon the exemplary conduct of past Parliamentarians such as Jawaharlal Nehru and Atal Bihari Vajpayee, recalling their unyielding commitment to decorum and respect within parliamentary proceedings. “They are remembered for their integrity because they did not disrupt the House or disrespect the Chair,” he mentioned.
Encouraging legislators to adapt to their roles in the Union Territory Assembly, he reiterated the importance of serving the public and addressing their concerns, even within the confines of the new operational limits. “Until Statehood is restored, we will continue to serve the people and advocate for their issues in this Assembly,” he affirmed.
