Jammu and Kashmir Lt Governor Manoj Sinha
Credit: PTI File Photo
Srinagar: Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor, Manoj Sinha, on Monday reiterated that his government remains firmly committed to restoring the Union Territory’s statehood and is actively engaging with various stakeholders to ensure the process moves forward in a systematic and transparent manner.
In his address to the maiden Budget session of Jammu and Kashmir Assembly after over seven years in Jammu, he said that restoration of statehood remains one of the core demands of the people.
“One of the core aspirations of the people of Jammu and Kashmir is the restoration of full statehood. My government remains steadfast in its commitment to addressing this legitimate desire of the citizens,” Sinha said.
He highlighted that the government recognizes the emotional and political significance of statehood for the people and is actively engaging with all stakeholders to ensure the process is handled in a systematic, transparent manner.
“We take immense pride in our composite culture and centuries-old traditions of brotherhood. My government is committed to preserving the unity and diversity that define Jammu and Kashmir,” the Lieutenant Governor added, stressing that peace, stability, and progress are central to the process.
Jammu and Kashmir has been under a Union Territory status since August 2019, when the central government revoked Article 370 of the Indian Constitution, which granted special autonomy to the erstwhile state. Since then, there has been widespread anticipation and debate surrounding the restoration of statehood, with political leaders and citizens alike calling for its return.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has reiterated the Centre’s commitment to granting statehood to Jammu and Kashmir, a demand unanimously raised by all political parties in the region.
In November 2024, during the first 5-day session of the J&K Legislative Assembly in Srinagar, the ruling National Conference moved a resolution urging the Government of India to initiate a constitutional process for restoring the region’s autonomy and to begin a dialogue with elected representatives.
The ongoing 40-day Budget session, which began today, will have a total of 22 sittings, including two days reserved for Private Members’ resolutions and one day for Private Members’ Bills, ensuring a robust forum for discussion on key issues.