Diplomat Correspondent
Jammu,(DD) Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has pledged never to present a budget again while observing the Ramzan fast, citing the immense physical strain of delivering a lengthy speech without food or water.
On Friday, Abdullah presented his first budget as both Chief Minister and Finance Minister in the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly. His budget speech lasted nearly one hour and 45 minutes, during which he refrained from drinking even a drop of water due to fasting. Despite the challenges, he remained composed throughout the session, delivering his financial roadmap for the Union Territory.
Speaking to reporters after the session, Abdullah admitted that the experience had been exhausting and that he would make sure such a situation does not arise again. “I could have advanced or postponed the session. After today’s experience, I will never present my budget again while fasting. Either I will reschedule the session or request the Speaker to hold it after Iftar,” he said.
The budget session holds special significance as it is the first to be presented in the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly since 2018. The return of an elected government and legislative processes marks a crucial step in the region’s democratic revival following years of central rule.
Abdullah’s statement has sparked discussions about the scheduling of important legislative proceedings, especially in a diverse region where religious sensitivities and governance must be balanced. Political analysts note that while leaders often make personal sacrifices in their roles, considerations for their well-being should also be taken into account when planning such critical events.
As Jammu and Kashmir navigates its financial future under the new government, the focus remains on how the administration will implement the provisions outlined in the budget while addressing the expectations of the people(DD)