CM Omar reminds PM Modi of statehood promise

Ganderbal, Jan 13: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah expressed hope on Monday that Prime Minister Narendra Modi would fulfill his promise of restoring statehood to Jammu and Kashmir.
Speaking at a gathering in Sonamarg, Ganderbal district, Abdullah emphasized the importance of statehood for the region’s political stability and development.
“Restoring statehood is not just a political demand; it is a promise made to the people of Jammu and Kashmir. Fulfilling it will reaffirm the government’s commitment to the region’s democratic aspirations,” Omar said during his address.
Earlier in the day, Abdullah welcomed Prime Minister Modi during the inauguration of the Sonamarg Tunnel, a key infrastructure project aimed at improving connectivity in the region. While expressing his gratitude to the Prime Minister for braving the cold weather to visit, Abdullah used the occasion to remind him of his January 2020 assurance regarding statehood restoration.
Quoting PM Modi’s earlier remarks about bridging “dil ki doori” (the distance of hearts) and “Dilli se doori” (the distance from Delhi), Omar said, “The distance of hearts, Prime Minister Modi is actively working to erase both of these, and your actions here truly reflect this effort.”
He added, “Within just fifteen days, this is your second program related to Jammu and Kashmir. Earlier, you honored Jammu with the Rail Division, and now you have participated in this program and visited Sonamarg to inaugurate the Sonamarg Tunnel. Such projects not only reduce the distance of hearts but also bring Delhi closer to the region.”
Highlighting the recently held elections in Jammu and Kashmir, Abdullah lauded the efforts of the Election Commission and the central government. “The elections were free of complaints about irregularities or misuse of power. This credit goes to you, Prime Minister Modi, your colleagues, and the Election Commission,” he added.
“PM Modi has a close relationship with Jammu and Kashmir. We hope the Prime Minister will visit us again, stay among us, and share in our happiness,” Omar said.
Meanwhile, Abdullah paid tribute to the seven victims who lost their lives in a terrorist attack on the tunnel project on October 10 last year. “It would be inappropriate for me to begin my speech without honouring their sacrifice,” he said, emphasising the immense toll the region has endured over the past 35–37 years in the pursuit of national development and the prosperity of Jammu and Kashmir.
Abdullah also praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his unwavering commitment to the region. “We were not ready to compromise the nation. The presence of Prime Minister Modi today is evidence that those who do not wish well for this country will never succeed. They will always be defeated and sent back,” he said. “Today, the people of Jammu and Kashmir are satisfied that you have inaugurated this tunnel.”
The Chief Minister further stressed that the inauguration of the Z-Morh Tunnel symbolizes a major victory for peace and progress in the region. “Your presence here is proof that those behind these attacks and those against the efforts of the Jammu and Kashmir government for development will always face defeat,” he said, vowing continued efforts toward development and resilience.