Jammu & Kashmir Assembly Approves Statehood Resolution Amid BJP Protests
On September 28, 2026, the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly passed a resolution for full statehood, facing significant opposition from BJP legislators.
The resolution for full statehood received support from around 60 out of 90 legislators.
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah emphasized that statehood should not be linked to the end of militancy.
All political parties except the BJP backed the resolution, highlighting a unified call for statehood.
In a significant political move, the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly passed a resolution on September 28, 2026, advocating for the restoration of full statehood. This decision came amid uproar from BJP legislators, who protested against the resolution, claiming it contradicted official communications from the Law Secretary and Chief Secretary. Approximately 60 out of the 90 assembly members supported the resolution, showcasing a strong consensus among various political factions.
The resolution was introduced by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on September 25, 2026, and it builds upon previous resolutions from 2000 and 2024. Abdullah articulated that the current state of governance is hindered by the absence of statehood, which he argued is crucial for the effective functioning of the elected government. He criticized the central government for failing to fulfill promises regarding statehood restoration, even two years after the assembly elections.
During the assembly session, Abdullah cautioned against linking the restoration of statehood to the cessation of militancy, stating that such a stance could shift the focus of the issue to Islamabad rather than New Delhi. He expressed concern that the BJP's tactics might derail the discussion, urging his colleagues not to introduce amendments related to Articles 370 and 35A, which could complicate the resolution's passage. Despite some NC legislators proposing amendments, they were ultimately withdrawn to ensure the resolution's smooth approval.
The political landscape in Jammu and Kashmir has been tense, with the BJP opposing the resolution vehemently. Senior BJP leader Sunil Sharma articulated the party's stance, arguing that the resolution's language was inconsistent with the Indian Constitution. He emphasized the need for a positive discussion on statehood but refused to engage with what he termed a controversial resolution. In contrast, other political leaders from the Congress and AAP expressed the necessity of restoring statehood, framing it as a reflection of the aspirations of the people of Jammu and Kashmir.
Looking ahead, the resolution's passage may prompt further discussions between the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly and the central government regarding the future of statehood. The assembly's call for immediate restoration of statehood reflects a growing demand among the populace for greater autonomy and governance. As the political climate evolves, the implications of this resolution could significantly shape the relationship between Jammu and Kashmir and the central government in the coming months.
