STATE TIMES NEWS
HYDERABAD/JAMMU: Union Minister G. Kishan Reddy expressed his unwavering support for the democratically elected government in Jammu and Kashmir, emphasizing the importance of peace and development in the region. Addressing ideological differences with parties like the National Conference (NC), Reddy firmly rejected NC’s demands for restoring Article 370, releasing terrorists, engaging in talks with Pakistan, and resuming cross-border trade. He called these demands unacceptable.
The Minister was interacted with media delegation of Jammu and Kashmir at BJP Headquarter in Hyderabad.
Reddy assured that the development projects in Jammu and Kashmir would continue, regardless of the new government, as long as the elected leadership remains committed to development.
He highlighted that decisions regarding state-specific issues are typically handled by the local government, with the central government not interfering as long as the agenda focuses on progress. Commenting on the long-standing practice of the “Darbar Move” – the bi-annual shifting of the J&K government between Srinagar and Jammu – Reddy stated that if the Union Territory government sends any proposal in this regard, the Central Government will thoroughly discuss it with the leadership and take appropriate action. This open stance shows the Central Government’s willingness to engage with local issues in J&K.
When asked about the restoration of Jammu and Kashmir’s statehood, Reddy did not specify a timeline but he was referring to Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah’s meeting with Home Minister Amit Shah and Prime Minister Narendra Modi in which Omar informed them about the UT Cabinet’s resolution of Statehood to J&K Union Territory.