by Nisar Rasool
Srinagar: The Jammu and Kashmir Cabinet has unanimously passed a resolution urging the Union Government to restore the region’s statehood. The decision was made during a meeting chaired by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Thursday.
A government spokesperson stated that restoring statehood is viewed as the beginning of a healing process that aims to reclaim the constitutional rights and protect the unique identity of the people of Jammu and Kashmir. The Cabinet has authorized the Chief Minister to discuss this matter with the Prime Minister and other central officials.
The spokesperson emphasized that safeguarding Jammu and Kashmir’s distinct identity and the constitutional rights of its residents is central to the newly elected government’s policy. In line with this, the Chief Minister is expected to travel to New Delhi in the coming days for discussions with the Prime Minister and Union Ministers.
Additionally, the Cabinet announced that the Legislative Assembly will convene in Srinagar on November 4, 2024, with plans for the Lieutenant Governor to address the assembly. A draft address for the Lieutenant Governor’s speech at the beginning of the session was presented and will be further discussed by the Council of Ministers.
The Council also recommended the appointment of Mubarak Gul as Protem Speaker, who will oversee the swearing-in of elected assembly members on October 21, 2024. Following this, the Lieutenant Governor issued an order appointing Gul as Protem Speaker until a permanent Speaker is elected.
