National Conference President Farooq Abdullah has issued a strong warning regarding the prolonged delay in restoring statehood to Jammu and Kashmir. Speaking to reporters on Saturday, June 21, 2025, in Anantnag, Jammu and Kashmir, Abdullah stated that his party would be compelled to approach the Supreme Court if the central government continues to delay the restoration.
Abdullah emphasized that the people of Jammu and Kashmir are eager to have their issues addressed promptly following the elections. However, the absence of statehood is hindering progress. He highlighted the aspirations of many, including the desire for National Conference MLA Altaf Kaloo to assume a ministerial position, which remains impossible until statehood is reinstated.
"We are waiting, but if they (Centre) take a long time, then we will have no option but to go to the Supreme Court," Abdullah asserted. Despite the threat of legal action, he expressed optimism that the restoration of statehood would bring about a return of full powers to the region.
Furthermore, Abdullah addressed the broader issue of governance in Jammu and Kashmir, criticizing its current status as a Union Territory. He argued that governing the region with its distinct culture and vastness under the limited framework of a Union Territory is ineffective, comparing it to "trying to fly a kite without wind." He previously stated on Wednesday, June 19, 2025, that the restoration of statehood is not a concession but a constitutional right long overdue and repeatedly promised by the ruling government.
Abdullah also touched upon international matters, commenting on the Israel-Iran conflict. He expressed his hope for peace, stating, "I pray that God gives both Israel as well as Iran some sense and give (Donald) Trump some sense also so that he talks about peace and not war. The issues can only be resolved peacefully, and nothing will be achieved without peace."
In addition to statehood concerns, Abdullah raised questions regarding the security situation in the region, referencing the Pahalgam attack on April 22 where militants managed to carry out the attack despite the heavy presence of security forces and advanced technologies like drones. He questioned the government's claims of ending militancy, asking, "They (Centre) said we ended militancy here, then where did they (Pahalgam attackers) come from? We have so many forces, so many drones etc. Where did those four (attackers) come from?"
Abdullah's remarks underscore the growing frustration and impatience within the National Conference and among the people of Jammu and Kashmir regarding the delayed restoration of statehood, with the Supreme Court now potentially being the next battleground for this contentious issue. He said that it has been eight months since the government in Jammu and Kashmir was formed. He remains optimistic that with the return of statehood, the region will also regain the administrative authority necessary for proper governance.
