In Constant Touch with HM Amit Shah to Resolve J&K Issues: CM Omar Abdullah
Active discussions underway with Centre regarding full statehood, transaction of business rules, reservation policy, and the pending appointment of an Advocate General.
SRINAGAR: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah confirmed on Monday that his administration maintains active and continuous communication with Union Home Minister Amit Shah to address pivotal governance, administrative, and constitutional matters affecting the Union Territory.
Speaking to media persons, the Chief Minister underscored that structural coordination with New Delhi remains essential to resolve longstanding administrative ambiguities, prominently including the restoration of statehood, operational business rules, the regional reservation framework, and the prolonged vacancy in the state’s legal leadership.
— Omar Abdullah, Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir
Vacant Advocate General Post & Reservation Policy
Flagging critical administrative delays, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah highlighted that Jammu and Kashmir has functioned without a regular Advocate General for nearly two years. Pointing out the extended void in the Union Territory’s senior legal representation, he emphasized that this pressing requirement was taken up during discussions with the Union Home Minister.
Turning to the contentious reservation framework, the Chief Minister disclosed that the J&K Cabinet has already finalized its official reply intended for the Central Government. However, the formal response remains pending dispatch. Omar noted that the Cabinet’s compiled documentation will soon be transmitted to New Delhi to streamline policy alignments.
Key Highlights of CM Omar’s Briefing
- Statehood & Governance Rules: Channel of communication with Union Home Minister Amit Shah remains open and active to push for statehood restoration and refined business rules.
- Legal Head Vacancy: Flagged that J&K has gone nearly two years without an Advocate General; matter flagged for prompt appointment.
- Reservation Framework: J&K Cabinet’s response to the Centre is fully drafted and slated for transmission.
- Cultural Revival: Hailed the 1st International Film Festival as a vital platform to showcase global cinema and revive the region’s historic standing as a premier filmmaking destination.
- Interns’ Stir & Security: Health Department directed to expedite decisions on protesting medical interns; security establishment urged to treat threats against migrants with utmost seriousness.
Backing International Film Festival to Revive Kashmir’s Cinematic Heritage
Welcoming the inaugural International Film Festival organized by the Jammu and Kashmir administration, the Chief Minister remarked that the cultural initiative serves as a major milestone for film enthusiasts, media students, and the local entertainment industry.
He noted that the four-day festival broadens the creative horizons of youth studying mass communication by exposing them to diverse global cinema, while simultaneously reviving Kashmir’s legendary legacy with the cinematic world. Reflecting on past eras, Omar reminded that Kashmir served as cinema’s favorite backdrop long before production houses shifted focus to European destinations like Switzerland, expressing optimism that the valley will once again emerge as a vibrant filmmaking destination.
On Protesting Interns, Journalist Assault, and Security Concerns
Addressing the agitation by medical interns, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah stated that Health Minister Sakina Itoo has held deliberations with them, offering assurances that their demands will be addressed. He stressed that resolving the matter promptly remains a top priority so that academic training and healthcare work do not suffer. However, he noted that the Health Department must officially finalize its internal recommendations before the Cabinet takes a formal decision.
Commenting on reports regarding the alleged assault of two women journalists by police personnel in New Delhi, Omar termed the development highly unfortunate, expressing regret over the turn of events.
Reacting to reports of threats issued to migrant workers and minority employees, the Chief Minister urged security agencies not to overlook such inputs. He stressed that the security establishment must treat intimidation attempts with complete seriousness, investigate them thoroughly, and initiate strict legal countermeasures to safeguard all communities.
