Jammu and Kashmir has yet to achieve complete normalcy as sporadic terror attacks continue to occur, though efforts to establish lasting peace are underway, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah said on Friday.
Abdullah’s comments came a day after Union Home Minister Amit Shah stated that Article 370 had planted the seeds of separatism among Kashmiri youth. Shah asserted that the Narendra Modi-led government not only eradicated terrorism in the valley but also dismantled the terror ecosystem that supported it.
When asked about Shah’s remarks, Abdullah refrained from commenting directly. Instead, he acknowledged the ongoing challenges in the region.
“Reports of attacks are still coming from some areas, indicating that normalcy has not yet been fully restored in Jammu and Kashmir. It is a process, and we will have to observe how things unfold in the coming days,” Abdullah told reporters.
Rumors of Name Change Dismissed
The chief minister also addressed rumors circulating about a potential name change for Jammu and Kashmir to “Kashyap.”
“There is no truth to such claims. A media outlet reported it but later issued a correction. No such proposal exists, and in any case, such a change cannot happen without the consent of the Jammu and Kashmir government,” Abdullah clarified.
Preparedness for Snowfall
With snowfall forecast for the region, Abdullah assured that the administration is well-prepared to handle the challenges posed by harsh weather.
“We are ready to deal with the situation. Several meetings have been held to ensure better preparedness. We have learned from our experience during the last snowfall, and any shortcomings observed previously will be addressed this time,” he said.
Improving Power Supply
Addressing concerns about the electricity supply in the valley, Abdullah noted that efforts were underway to provide residents with a reliable power supply despite ongoing challenges.
“The power situation this year is better than in previous years. While power cuts are occurring, every effort is being made to adhere to the schedule. When issues arise within the system, they are resolved promptly,” he explained.
Continuing Efforts Toward Peace
Abdullah emphasized that while progress is being made, peace in the region remains a work in progress. The government is focused on addressing immediate concerns while also striving for long-term stability.
The chief minister’s remarks underscore the delicate balance between ongoing efforts to establish peace and the challenges posed by persistent issues such as terror activities and infrastructural concerns. As Jammu and Kashmir continues its journey toward stability, the administration remains committed to improving the quality of life for its citizens while addressing the region’s unique challenges.