During the inauguration of the Vande Bharat Express connecting Katra to Srinagar on June 6, 2025, Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah addressed Prime Minister Narendra Modi, advocating for the restoration of the region’s statehood. Reflecting on the administrative changes since 2019, when Jammu and Kashmir was reorganized into a Union Territory, Abdullah remarked, “I, as the Chief Minister of a full-fledged State then, stand slightly demoted. I was the Chief Minister of a State. Now I am the Chief Minister of a Union Territory.”
He humorously contrasted his situation with that of Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, noting that while Sinha had been promoted from Minister of State to LG, he had experienced a demotion. Abdullah expressed optimism, stating, “I believe that it will not take long for this to be corrected. And with your help, Jammu and Kashmir will again attain the status of a State.”
The event also marked the launch of significant infrastructure projects, including the inauguration of the world’s highest railway arch bridge over the Chenab River, further integrating Kashmir with the rest of India.
This public appeal underscores the ongoing discourse and aspirations within Jammu and Kashmir regarding the restoration of its statehood.
