Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah made it clear on Monday that he would refrain from demanding statehood for the union territory in the wake of the tragic terror attack in Pahalgam, which claimed the lives of 26 people. While statehood remains an important part of the J&K government’s agenda, Abdullah stressed that this is not the right time to raise such a demand, given the nation’s collective mourning for the victims.
Speaking in the J&K assembly, Abdullah remarked, “I will not use this moment to demand statehood. After Pahalgam, with what face can I ask for statehood for Jammu and Kashmir? Meri kya itni sasti siyasat hai?” (Is my politics so cheap?). He added, “We have discussed statehood in the past and will do so in the future too, but it will be shameful on my part if I go and tell the central government that 26 people have died, now give me statehood.”
The issue of statehood has been a longstanding point of contention between the Centre and the Opposition, particularly after the revocation of Article 370 in August 2019, which stripped Jammu and Kashmir of its special status. Despite this, Abdullah reaffirmed his party’s commitment to the demand for statehood but emphasized that the loss of lives in Pahalgam took precedence over political matters.
In his address, Abdullah expressed deep sorrow for the victims and acknowledged the nationwide impact of the attack. “This attack has affected the entire country, and such an incident hasn’t occurred in 21 years,” he stated. He confessed feeling at a loss for words, unable to find an adequate apology for the families of the deceased. “Being the host, it was my duty to send the tourists back safely. I couldn’t do it. I do not have the words to seek an apology,” he said, visibly moved.
Furthermore, Abdullah reflected on the public’s response, noting the unprecedented protests that followed the attack. He also highlighted that the end of militancy and terrorism in the region would only come with the support of the people, and that it seemed the people of Jammu and Kashmir were beginning to reach that point of support.
The J&K assembly unanimously passed a resolution condemning the terrorist attack in Pahalgam. The National Conference’s election manifesto continues to emphasize the restoration of Article 370, the reinstatement of statehood, and the implementation of the autonomy resolution. However, Abdullah’s comments make it clear that, for now, the focus remains on healing from the devastating loss of lives rather than pursuing political goals.
