Fri Oct 18 14:04:20 UTC 2024: ## Jammu & Kashmir Cabinet Passes Resolution for Statehood Restoration, Raising Opposition Concerns

**Srinagar, October 18, 2024:** The newly formed Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) Cabinet, led by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, has reportedly passed a resolution seeking the restoration of statehood for the Union Territory. While the resolution’s details remain undisclosed, the move has drawn criticism from opposition parties who claim it falls short of the demand for the restoration of Article 370.

The resolution was reportedly discussed during the first Cabinet meeting held on Thursday, October 17th, 2024. While the National Conference (NC), the ruling party, remains tight-lipped about the resolution, opposition leaders have voiced their disappointment.

Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) leader Waheed-ur-Rehman Parra labelled the resolution as a “ratification” of the August 5th, 2019 decision that revoked Article 370, arguing that the focus on statehood alone is a “huge setback” after the NC campaigned on the promise of restoring Article 370.

Sajad Lone, chairman of the J&K Peoples Conference, questioned the secrecy surrounding the resolution and urged the Chief Secretary to officially notify the development. He also highlighted that the Assembly, rather than the cabinet, should be the platform for addressing major issues like statehood or Article 370.

Baramulla MP Sheikh Abdul Rashid, known as Engineer Rashid, described the reports as “very painful” and a “departure” from the NC’s principled stand. He alleged that the focus on statehood alone indicates a ploy by the NC to “play into the hands of the BJP” and avoid addressing the demand for restoring Article 370.

While the resolution marks a significant step towards restoring some autonomy to J&K, its limited scope and the lack of clarity surrounding its content have fueled a wave of criticism and raised questions about the NC’s commitment to fulfilling its election promises.

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