Omar Abdullah brings J&K statehood demand to Assembly as political debate intensifies. (Img: Pinterest)
Srinagar: A fresh political battle has erupted in Jammu and Kashmir after Chief Minister Omar Abdullah moved a resolution in the Legislative Assembly demanding the immediate restoration of full statehood to the Union Territory. The move has brought one of the region’s biggest political demands back into focus and triggered sharp exchanges between ruling and opposition members inside the House.
The resolution was introduced during the ongoing Autumn Session of the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly and seeks to formally communicate the demand for full statehood to the Government of India. It also refers to earlier resolutions passed by the Assembly in 2000 and 2024, keeping the long-standing statehood issue at the centre of political discussions.
The development has gained attention as Jammu and Kashmir continues to function as a Union Territory with an elected government but limited powers compared to a full state. The debate has mainly revolved around administrative control, law and order responsibilities and the authority of an elected government to take key decisions.
## Omar Abdullah Pushes For Full Powers
While moving the resolution, Omar Abdullah argued that Jammu and Kashmir should not receive a limited or partial form of statehood. He maintained that the elected government should have complete powers associated with a full state, including authority over law and order.
The Chief Minister highlighted that the people of Jammu and Kashmir were assured of a three-stage process involving delimitation, Assembly elections and restoration of statehood. According to Abdullah, delimitation and elections have already taken place, while the final step of restoring statehood is still awaited.
He stated that the demand is not connected to any individual, political party or government but concerns the wider interests of Jammu and Kashmir and its people.
## Law and Order Powers Become Key Flashpoint
The issue of law and order has emerged as one of the biggest points of discussion in the statehood debate.
Omar Abdullah questioned the functioning of an elected government that is expected to deliver governance but does not control certain important administrative areas. He referred to sectors such as the Power Development Corporation and health infrastructure while highlighting challenges under the existing Union Territory framework.
The Chief Minister also raised questions about financial decision-making, saying that while an elected government presents budgets and remains accountable before the public, it should also have greater clarity and authority over implementation.
## Why J&K Statehood Demand Has Returned
The demand for restoration of statehood has remained a major political issue since Jammu and Kashmir was reorganised into two Union Territories following the Centre’s August 2019 decision.
After the reorganisation, Jammu and Kashmir received an elected Assembly, but several important powers remained with the Lieutenant Governor and the Union government.
Political parties in the region have repeatedly demanded the return of full statehood, arguing that it would provide greater democratic representation and administrative authority.
## Political Clash Inside Assembly
The statehood resolution led to heated moments inside the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly, with BJP legislators raising objections over the proposal and its timing.
The House witnessed disruptions as members debated the resolution and the question of powers available to the elected government.
National Conference members supported the move, while opposition members questioned aspects of the resolution, creating a political confrontation inside the Assembly.
## Background: From State To Union Territory
Jammu and Kashmir was reorganised into the Union Territories of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh after the constitutional changes announced in August 2019.
The move significantly changed the administrative structure of the region. While Jammu and Kashmir later witnessed Assembly elections and formation of an elected government, the demand for restoration of statehood continued to remain a major political issue.
The latest resolution has formally placed the demand before the Union government through the elected legislature.
## Political Impact Across Jammu And Kashmir
The statehood issue has become a major topic among political parties, public representatives and civil society groups in Jammu and Kashmir.
Supporters of restoration argue that full statehood would strengthen accountability and allow the elected government to exercise wider powers. Critics have raised questions over the timing and political implications of the demand.
The response of the Union government to the Assembly resolution will be closely watched as the issue continues to shape political discussions in the region.
## What Happens Next
Omar Abdullah has requested the Speaker to allow a detailed discussion on the resolution during the ongoing Assembly session.
The Autumn Session of the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly, scheduled from September 21 to September 30, is also discussing issues related to employment, reservation, workers’ regularisation, infrastructure and public services.
The coming days are expected to see further political debate over the demand for full statehood and the future governance model of Jammu and Kashmir.
