Omar Abdullah Urges PM Modi to Fulfill Statehood Promise at Sonamarg Tunnel Inauguration

Srinagar, Jan 13: During the inauguration of the Sonamarg Tunnel, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah passionately appealed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi to fulfill his commitment to restoring Jammu and Kashmir’s statehood. In his opening remarks, Omar Abdullah acknowledged the Prime Minister’s efforts in fulfilling two out of the three promises made during his speech in Srinagar last year, where PM Modi began his third term in office.

Omar Abdullah expressed appreciation for the steps taken to address the “Delhi ki Doori” (distance from Delhi) and the successful conduct of assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir. However, he emphasized that the promise of restoring statehood remains unfulfilled. “The people of Jammu and Kashmir, including media persons, frequently ask me about the status of this promise. My heart believes that you, Prime Minister, will soon fulfill this promise as well,” he said, addressing PM Modi directly.

The Chief Minister’s speech began with a solemn tribute to the seven individuals, including a doctor, who lost their lives in an attack at Gagangeer in October last year. These individuals were involved in the construction of the Sonamarg Tunnel, a critical infrastructure project. Omar Abdullah highlighted their sacrifices as emblematic of the larger contributions made by the people of Jammu and Kashmir over the past 35 years. “The people here have sacrificed their lives for the progress of this nation. I belong to a party that has endured immense sacrifices for the nation’s unity and progress,” he said.

Omar Abdullah underscored the significance of PM Modi’s presence at the event, describing it as a strong signal to those who oppose the development, peace, and democracy in Jammu and Kashmir. “Your presence here sends a clear message to those who work against the progress of J&K and the unity of the nation. They will not succeed; they will face defeat,” he asserted.

The CM’s appeal for statehood restoration comes at a pivotal time, reflecting the aspirations of the people of Jammu and Kashmir for greater political and administrative autonomy. By linking the sacrifices of the region’s people to the development of critical national projects like the Sonamarg Tunnel, Omar Abdullah aimed to reinforce the narrative that Jammu and Kashmir is an integral part of India’s growth story. His call for statehood aligns with the sentiments of many in the region, who see it as a pathway to greater stability, peace, and democratic participation.

The inauguration of the Sonamarg Tunnel, a landmark infrastructure project, not only symbolizes connectivity and progress but also serves as a backdrop to Omar Abdullah’s call for fulfilling the last promise. His words resonated with the audience, leaving an impression of hope and determination for the future of Jammu and Kashmir.