In this screenshot via @NarendraModi Youtube on Jan. 13, 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi with J&K Chief Minister Omar Abdullah during a public meeting, at Sonamarg, in Ganderbal district, J&K.
Credit: PTI Photo
Srinagar: As Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the much-anticipated Z-Morh Tunnel on Monday, Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah took the opportunity to remind him of the central government’s promise to restore statehood to the Union Territory (UT).
In his address to the public, which followed the inauguration event, Abdullah expressed hope that Center would fulfill its commitment to restore Jammu and Kashmir’s statehood, a promise made repeatedly by PM Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah in the past.
Abdullah said last year after taking over as Prime Minister for third term the Prime Minister made three promises – to remove ‘Dilli ki Doori’, holding assembly polls in J&K and restoration of statehood to the UT.
“The two promises — including ‘Delhi ki Doori’ and assembly elections have been fulfilled by you. Abdullah told Modi during his speech. “However, the third promise, of restoring statehood, remains unfulfilled. People here, including the media, often ask me about it. My heart believes that this promise will also be fulfilled soon.”
The Chief Minister began his remarks by remembering the seven workers, including a doctor, who were tragically killed in a terror attack near the Sonamarg Tunnel site in October 2024.
“For the last 35 years, the people of Jammu and Kashmir have sacrificed their lives for the progress of this nation. I belong to the party that has made significant sacrifices for this nation,” he said, paying tribute to the victims.
The Chief Minister also spoke about the symbolic significance of PM Modi’s visit, stressing that his presence in Sonamarg sent a strong message to those who oppose the region’s development. “Your presence here sends a powerful message to those who do not want Jammu and Kashmir to prosper. Such elements will not succeed and will face defeat,” he asserted.
The Chief Minister said that due to the efforts of Prime Minister, the peace along the borders has greatly benefited remote areas. Whether it's Machil, Gurez, Karnah, or Keran, people are benefiting in terms of development and tourism, with more tourists arriving, he added.
Meanwhile, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, in his speech, highlighted the shift in focus for Jammu and Kashmir, from terrorism to tourism.
“The Z-Morh Tunnel will be a game-changer, providing year-round connectivity that will attract more tourists and strengthen our Army’s logistical support in the region,” LG Sinha said, emphasizing the broader benefits the project would bring to both the economy and security of the region.
“Ek ek kar ke, aapke khwabon ko saakar karne ka kaam PM Modi ne kiya hai (One by one, PM Modi has turned your dreams into reality),” the LG said.