Says, NC candidate for Budgam to be announced within 48 Hours; Cabinet memo will not be made public until signed by LG; Smart meters mandatory for free electricity; Hope for early restoration of statehood
Diplomat Correspondent
Srinagar: DD, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Saturday said that the National Conference will announce its candidate for Budgam constituency within the next 48 hours.
Interacting with media persons in Srinagar, CM Omar said his party is committed to its manifesto and every promise will be fulfilled during the tenure.
“We are working to address public concerns including power supply, tourism revival and other vital issues,” Omar said.
He also said that NC will extend support to Congress in Nagrota seat if the party decides to contest from there.
On the restoration of statehood, Omar Abdullah expressed hope that the process will be expedited.
“We are hopeful that statehood will be restored as soon as possible,” he remarked.
Regarding the ongoing reservation row, the Chief Minister said, “Let the cabinet memo be finalised and reach the Lieutenant Governor. It is only a matter of days before the decision will be made.”
On electricity concerns, Omar Abdullah stated that without the installation of smart meters, free 200 units of power to poor households will not be possible.
He further said that efforts are underway to revive the tourism sector after the recent Pahalgam attack.
On being asked about his manifesto promise of revoking the Public Safety Act (PSA), Omar Abdullah made his stand clear.
“Once statehood to J&K is restored, we will revoke the PSA. We will not wait even for the assembly session but will revoke the law through an ordinance,” Omar said.
He reiterated that many points in the NC manifesto depend on the return of statehood, as security and law & order currently fall under the jurisdiction of the Lieutenant Governor.
“So, I once again reiterate, once statehood to Jammu and Kashmir is restored, our government will revoke the Public Safety Act (PSA) from J&K,” CM Omar said. (KNC)