Jammu and Kashmir Assembly passes statehood resolution as BJP walks out
The Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly passed a resolution seeking immediate restoration of full statehood on September 28 during its autumn session, prompting BJP legislators to stage a walkout in protest. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah moved the resolution on September 25, after which at least 10 legislators submitted amendments to strengthen it, though these were subsequently withdrawn before the vote.
The resolution called upon the Government of India for "the immediate and urgent restoration of full statehood to Jammu and Kashmir" and referenced earlier resolutions passed by the House on June 26, 2000 and November 6, 2024. Omar Abdullah clarified during the debate that the resolution sought only a vote for statehood, not the restoration of Articles 370 and 35A, addressing concerns raised by protesting BJP legislators. He questioned what the Centre meant by phrases like "as soon as possible" and "at an appropriate time" regarding statehood restoration, and cautioned against linking the issue to security concerns or militancy-related incidents.
Several legislators from the ruling National Conference, the opposition People's Democratic Party, and the People's Conference spoke during the debate. While JKNC legislators, including chief spokesperson Tanvir Sadiq from Zadibal, termed the resolution "historic," the BJP's walkout marked their opposition to the legislative proceedings.
