PULWAMA, SEPT 16: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Wednesday advised leaders from Ladakh and Kargil to seek written and signed commitments from the Central Government rather than relying solely on verbal assurances.
Speaking to reporters after a review meeting in Pulwama, Omar said leaders should seek formal documentation of any commitments made by the Centre before placing their trust in them.
“As a friend and elder brother, I would advise the leaders of Ladakh that they should not trust any promise made by the Central Government until it is given to them in writing and signed,” he said.
Referring to the issue of restoration of statehood to Jammu and Kashmir, Omar said the people of J&K had also received a verbal assurance that statehood would be restored after the Assembly elections.
“We were also victims of a verbal promise. We were told that statehood would be restored immediately after the elections. Nearly two years have passed, and that promise is nowhere to be seen,” the Chief Minister said.
Omar suggested that Ladakh and Kargil leaders seek a written assurance from the Centre, preferably backed by an affidavit, before relying on commitments regarding their demands.
He acknowledged that Ladakh has its own distinct political and administrative concerns, separate from those of Jammu and Kashmir, but stressed that formal written commitments would provide greater clarity on any assurances given by the Central Government.
His remarks come amid continuing discussions between Ladakh representatives and the Centre over various demands concerning the region.
