CM Omar pledges J&K’s first right to its land, employment, resources

Srinagar, Oct 30: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah Wednesday said that the people of Jammu and Kashmir have the first right to their land, employment, and resources.

In an interaction with the members of civil society at Sher-e-Kashmir International Convention Center (SKICC) to discuss key issues, the chief minister said: “In our home, on our own land, don’t we have the right to live with dignity? Should we accept a life of humiliation and harassment wherever we go? We may secure everything that’s been flagged here, whether it’s roads, electricity, or water, but if we can’t live with dignity and our identity lacks value and honour, then all of this holds no real meaning. I want to assure you that we will fight for all that matters, but my priority is to restore our dignity. We should have the first right to our lands, our employment, and our resources. Only then can we truly say that this country respects our honour and dignity.”

Reflecting on the fundamental rights of the people, the CM reinforced his commitment to dignity, democratic values, and sustainable development for the people of J&K.

He underscored the importance of regular engagement with civil society, saying, “We usually turn to civil society meetings in difficult times, but this time, we initiated the interaction right from the start. Establishing regular contact is essential, and if we can meet at least twice a year, it would be of great significance.”

Discussing the need for democratic governance, CM Omar said: “For the last six years, we had no democratic setup here; there was a gap, and it was bound to create a disconnect. This is why people value democratic governments, as they bridge the relationship between the government and the people. Officers cannot replace the work of MLAs, sarpanches, or ministers.”

He said: “Now that a democratic setup is in place, I reiterate that this government belongs to the people of Jammu and Kashmir. We are here to serve you, not for our luxuries.”

The CM expressed optimism about restoring J&K’s statehood, saying, “The current arrangement is temporary and I am confident we will regain our statehood. The challenges we face can and will be addressed.”

He emphasised the need for genuine peace achieved through a cooperative atmosphere, acknowledging that everyone desires a peaceful, conducive environment in Kashmir.

“But I believe true peace requires partnership. It shouldn’t be an enforced calm, but one born out of the will of the people so that they can live their lives peacefully,” CM Omar said.

He also highlighted the importance of strengthening democratic institutions and preserving freedom of speech and said, “Our institutions need to be strengthened. Without freedom of speech, there is no real democracy. I know my colleagues and I might often be the first targets of this freedom, but that is the essence of democracy. Press, judiciary, bar associations, labour unions, and other organisations must be strengthened, creating an environment of peace and mutual respect.”

Referring to his recent meetings with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, and Minister of Road, Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari, the CM said that he had received assurances from the PM and other ministers that the central government would support whatever was beneficial for J&K’s progress.

“While we must strive to stand on our own, we need support and guidance during this transitional phase, and together, we will reach our goal,” he said.

CM Omar called for collective efforts to tackle drug addiction saying, “Drug addiction is a grave issue that threatens to hollow us from within. The government will play its part, but civil society, religious institutions, and leaders must also step up. I earnestly seek your cooperation in saving our youth from this menace. We must strengthen drug rehabilitation efforts and work together to prevent this blight from taking root.”

He said that in future civil society meetings, an action report on the issues raised in previous meetings like today’s would be presented, marking the beginning of a structured dialogue with periodic engagements to assess progress and identify areas for improvement.

“These discussions will ensure that we work together towards a responsive, transparent, and accountable government,” the CM said thanking for the constructive input from civil society representatives.

The civil society members who attended the meeting included representatives from various sectors like trade, tourism, education, industry, health, and transport, as well as houseboats and shikara owners, judiciary members, and former civil services Officers.

Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary, ministers Sakeena Itoo, Javid Ahmad Dar, Javed Rana, Member of Parliament from Srinagar, Aga Syed Ruhullah, Advisor to CM Nasir Aslam Wani, Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo, and other top administrative and Police officials were also present in the meeting.

Earlier, the civil society representatives presented a wide range of concerns and suggestions to the CM, who engaged attentively in dialogue, emphasising his government’s commitment to transparency and public welfare.