Farooq optimistic about J&K statehood restoration

Ganderbal, Apr 07: National Conference (NC) President Dr Farooq Abdullah on Monday expressed hope that Jammu and Kashmir will regain its statehood, reiterating that the matter remains a key demand of the people.
Speaking to reporters here, Dr Abdullah said, “I hope statehood will be restored.”
On the Waqf Amendment Bill, he said the matter is currently sub judice. “The Waqf Amendment Bill is before the Supreme Court. The Speaker of the Assembly cannot allow a debate on it when it is already in court,” he said, adding that the party is aware of the legal standing and trusts the judiciary to ensure justice.
When asked for further clarification on the party’s stance regarding the Waqf Bill, the NC Chief said Chief Minister Omar Abdullah will speak on the matter.
Regarding Union Home Minister Amit Shah’s visit to Jammu and Kashmir, Dr Abdullah welcomed the move. “They keep coming. It’s good that they are here. He (Home Minister) will see the situation at the border and get a sense of the ground realities in Jammu and Kashmir,” he said.