Welcomes reopening of tourist spots; assures minimum power cuts during Ramzan
BuzzBytes
Srinagar, Feb 17
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Tuesday said that the restoration of Jammu and Kashmir’s statehood would go a long way in addressing the aspirations of the people, asserting that engagement with the Centre is ongoing and constructive.
Speaking to reporters at the Sher-i-Kashmir International Convention Centre (SKICC), the Chief Minister said discussions with the Central government—both formal and through backchannels—are continuing despite the delay in reaching a final decision.
“The process has taken more time than we had hoped for, but the dialogue has not stopped. It has been nearly one and a half years. We remain optimistic that the wait will not be much longer,” he said.
Terming the reopening of 11 tourist destinations in Jammu and Kashmir as a positive and timely step, Omar Abdullah thanked Union Home Minister Amit Shah for issuing directions to allow tourists to visit previously closed areas.
“These places should never have been shut for so long. Even during difficult times, we did not keep them closed. I had raised this issue with the Home Minister in Delhi and during his recent visit here. I am glad that the decision has finally been implemented,” he said.
Referring to popular destinations like Yousmarg and Doodhpathri, the Chief Minister said local communities had borne the brunt of the closure.
“People who depend on tourism suffered significant losses. With the season beginning, I hope tourists return in large numbers and help revive the local economy,” he added.
Taking a swipe at the BJP, Omar Abdullah said there is often a mismatch between what the party claims and what it practices. Referring to a 2021 case related to alleged encroachment of government land, he said the truth would come out in due course.
He also alleged that more than 90 per cent of the Constituency Development Fund (CDF) of a Member of Parliament from Jammu and Kashmir was spent in Uttar Pradesh.
“This is a clear example of the difference between words and actions. If you represent J&K, your funds should benefit the people here,” he said.
On the power scenario, the Chief Minister acknowledged that the Union Territory is facing a significant electricity deficit but assured that the government is taking steps to minimise inconvenience, particularly during the holy month of Ramzan.
“There may be power cuts due to the shortage, but this problem is inherited. It cannot be fixed overnight. As new power projects come online, the situation will improve. For Ramzan, we have asked departments to ensure that cuts are kept to the bare minimum,” he said.
On the issue of regularisation, Omar Abdullah reiterated that a time-bound policy will be rolled out this year, as announced in the Assembly, and appealed to people not to resort to protests.
“When a clear policy and timeline have already been announced, taking to the streets is unnecessary and harmful to one’s own future. People should have faith in the process,” he said.
