Srinagar: Jammu and Kashmir’s former Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Monday expressed optimism that the Supreme Court of India will set a timeline for the restoration of statehood to J&K after the next hearing scheduled for October 10.
“We have been dragged into a prolonged wait by the central government regarding the restoration of statehood. But we now place our hopes in the Supreme Court. We believe it will take a favourable view and ensure our statehood is restored,” Omar said while speaking to reporters.
Reacting to Mehbooba Mufti’s protest over the condition of Kashmiri prisoners, Omar stated that the issue lies entirely with the central government. “We have no authority to bring the prisoners back to the Valley. That power rests solely with the Centre. It’s not in our hands,” he said.
Omar added that while concerns over the health and legal rights of detainees are valid, expecting regional parties to act on matters controlled by New Delhi is unrealistic.
