Srinagar, Feb 13: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has stated that his government will reassess its relationship with the Centre if it fails to fulfill its commitments.
In an interview with the BBC, Omar reiterated his commitment to the restoration of Article 370, emphasizing that he has not abandoned the fight for Jammu and Kashmir’s special status.
Addressing perceptions of being lenient towards Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s BJP-led government, he said, “In the initial months of my government, I owe it to the people of Jammu and Kashmir to establish a good working relationship with the Centre. If that does not yield results, we will reconsider our approach.”
Omar acknowledged that restoring Article 370 remains a challenge as long as Narendra Modi is in power but insisted that his government remains committed to the cause. “If we had given up, we wouldn’t have passed a resolution in the Assembly demanding the restoration of special status and constitutional guarantees,” he asserted.
He also clarified that maintaining cordial ties with the Centre should not be mistaken for an alliance with the BJP. “A functional relationship should not be misinterpreted as political alignment or friendship,” he noted.
On Indo-Pak relations, Omar remarked that at present, no scope exists for diplomatic engagement due to ongoing security concerns and frequent attacks on security forces in Jammu and Kashmir.
Discussing development, he emphasized his government’s mandate to serve the people and highlighted initiatives, including a new industrial and tourism policy. “We are actively promoting tourism and working on policies that will boost Jammu and Kashmir’s economic landscape,” he said.
Regarding internal differences within his party, particularly NC MP Aga Ruhullah’s divergent views, Omar stated that political parties should allow space for differing opinions. “Democracy thrives on debate, and people always have the choice to elect better leadership,” he concluded.
