Srinagar, April 6, 2025 – Reigniting the conversation around Jammu and Kashmir’s status and its developmental trajectory, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Sunday reaffirmed the emotional and political bond the region maintains with the rest of India, stating that “we still consider Jammu and Kashmir a state” despite the constitutional reorganisation.
Addressing the public during the inaugural session of the 3rd Lok Samvardhan Parv, a platform meant to promote inclusivity, participation, and progress, the Chief Minister welcomed Union Minister for Parliamentary and Minority Affairs Kiren Rijiju to the Valley and made a direct appeal to expedite pending development proposals from the Union Territory.
“We continue to view ourselves as a state,” Abdullah declared, adding, “We want to move ahead with the country. Jammu and Kashmir should be an integral part of the nation’s progress story.”
A Renewed Assertion of Identity
While the official status of Jammu and Kashmir was altered with the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019 and the subsequent bifurcation into two Union Territories, Abdullah’s remarks underscore the prevailing sentiment among many residents that their identity as a state remains intact in spirit. His statement, while nuanced, signals a desire for a greater role within the Indian federal structure, even as the Union government continues with the new administrative framework.
The Chief Minister’s assertion comes at a time when restoration of statehood remains a critical demand among political parties and civil society groups in the region. By reiterating this position at a national event with a Union Minister present, Abdullah’s comments were seen as both symbolic and strategic.
Developmental Backlog and Urgent Appeals
Abdullah used the occasion to highlight the developmental needs of the Union Territory, particularly pending proposals that require approval from the Centre. His direct appeal to Union Minister Kiren Rijiju aimed at cutting bureaucratic delays that continue to hamper on-ground progress.
“Wherever you can help us in this regard, please do,” Abdullah said, urging Rijiju to assist in securing timely clearances for projects that could directly impact employment, infrastructure, and economic revitalisation in the region.
He stressed the importance of expedited administrative processes, noting that the people of J&K deserve the same speed and seriousness in implementation as seen in other parts of India. “The quicker the proposals are cleared, the faster our people will see benefits,” he said.
Lok Samvardhan Parv: Platform for Cultural Exchange
Describing the Lok Samvardhan Parv as more than just a ceremonial gathering, Abdullah praised the initiative for giving a national platform to local artisans, entrepreneurs, and citizens from Jammu and Kashmir to showcase their skills and traditions.
“This programme allows our artisans and talented people to participate and present their work to a national audience,” he said. “Such platforms foster not only cultural pride but also promote economic activity through exposure and networking.”
Participants from different districts of Jammu and Kashmir displayed crafts, handlooms, and local produce at the event, drawing attention to the rich cultural fabric of the region. The exhibition also featured cultural performances, discussions on community participation, and stalls demonstrating government schemes.
Rijiju’s Challenging Portfolio Recognised
In a rare moment of candid reflection, Abdullah acknowledged the complex role of Kiren Rijiju as Minister of Parliamentary and Minority Affairs. “Your portfolio may look simple on the surface,” Abdullah told Rijiju, “but it is one of the most complex ones. You deal with a diverse population, with different languages, faiths, and customs.”
The Chief Minister noted that ensuring inclusive governance across such a spectrum requires deft political and social balancing. By recognizing the Union Minister’s efforts, Abdullah appeared to be fostering constructive engagement between Srinagar and New Delhi at a time when trust deficits remain a key issue in Centre-state relations.
Omar Abdullah also alluded to the decades of challenges faced by the region, stating that although the past has been marked by unrest and instability, people are yearning for peace, stability, and equitable growth.
“Jammu and Kashmir has seen its share of hardships. But we are looking forward now. We want peace, and we want progress. The people are ready,” he stated.
The Chief Minister’s comments reflect the region’s collective desire to move past conflict and disruption and focus on building sustainable economic and social frameworks. He emphasized the role of the central government in ensuring fair access to opportunities and infrastructure in the Valley and other parts of the UT.
Local Reactions and Broader Implications
Abdullah’s remarks have drawn attention across the political spectrum in Jammu and Kashmir. While some regional parties have echoed his sentiments regarding emotional statehood, others have called for a more decisive stance on the restoration of full statehood.
Political observers believe that Abdullah’s positioning is aimed at creating a balanced narrative—one that seeks cooperation with the Centre without compromising on regional identity. With Assembly elections in J&K anticipated within the next year, such events could serve as testing grounds for evolving political strategies.
Meanwhile, residents who attended the Lok Samvardhan Parv expressed appreciation for the platform. “We feel seen and heard. It is rare for our work to be showcased at a national level,” said Feroze Ahmed, a craftsman from Anantnag.
Local NGOs also participated in the event, engaging in dialogue with visiting officials on issues ranging from education to health access, pointing to the vast range of developmental gaps that still require attention in the post-Article 370 scenario.
Union Government’s Role in Bridging the Gap
Though Minister Rijiju did not make any direct promises at the event regarding pending proposals, his presence was viewed as a signal of continued engagement. His ministry’s role in minority affairs and parliamentary coordination places him at the intersection of policy-making and implementation—especially in a region as politically sensitive as Jammu and Kashmir.
As the Centre pushes forward with its development vision through schemes like PM-DevINE and Mission Youth, there remains a demand for greater transparency, accountability, and inclusion of local voices in the planning and rollout phases.
Civil society groups have also urged the Union Government to prioritize trust-building measures, including improved communication with local administration and elected representatives, once elections are held.
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah’s declaration that Jammu and Kashmir continues to see itself as a state, despite its changed constitutional status, speaks volumes about the region’s emotional connection with its historical identity. His appeal for accelerated development project clearances and emphasis on peace and participation reflects a grounded, forward-looking approach.
As the Union Territory navigates its next chapter, the balance between identity, autonomy, and development remains central. Events like the Lok Samvardhan Parv offer a microcosm of how cultural pride, governance outreach, and citizen engagement can come together, provided there is political will and administrative commitment on both sides.
