Says ‘L-G Was Promoted but I Was Demoted’ While Demanding Restoration of J&K’s Full Statehood
At the inauguration of the new rail link in Katra, former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah reignited the debate over the region’s political status by questioning the continued absence of full statehood.
Speaking at the event, Omar remarked, “The Lieutenant Governor was promoted, but I was demoted,” drawing attention to the downgrading of Jammu and Kashmir from a state to a Union Territory in 2019. His statement highlighted the growing demand from local political leaders for the restoration of democratic rights and statehood in the region.
The remarks came during a moment of celebration over infrastructure development, but quickly shifted focus to the larger political concerns that have remained unresolved. Omar’s comments reflect the sentiments of many in the region who believe that elected representation and autonomy must be reinstated.
The statement is likely to intensify the ongoing political discourse surrounding Jammu and Kashmir’s future, as calls for elections and restoration of statehood continue to grow louder.