Tanveer Hussain
Budgam, Oct 19 (JKNS): National Conference (NC) president and former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Dr Farooq Abdullah on Monday said the Cabinet expansion in Jammu and Kashmir would take place after the return of Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, who had been unwell.
Speaking to reporters in Budgam, as per news agency JKNS, Dr. Farooq said discussions were underway regarding the Cabinet expansion, but no final decision had emerged so far.
“Look, we don’t know anything yet. These are all conjectures. Talks are being held from all sides, but nothing has come to light yet because the Lieutenant Governor was not there. He was sick,” Abdullah said.
On the recent attacks on buses carrying passengers from Jammu and Kashmir in Haryana, Abdullah called for immediate action to prevent such incidents from recurring.
He said certain miscreants were attempting to create tensions in the country and expressed hope that the Central Government would take the matter seriously.
“We hope that the Central Government will also take this into consideration. Otherwise, the situation could worsen,” he said.
Abdullah’s remarks came amid concerns following stone-pelting attacks on buses travelling towards Jammu and Kashmir, including an incident in Haryana in which two people were injured.
On the Supreme Court’s verdict concerning Article 370, Abdullah termed the judgment “completely wrong” and reiterated his party’s position on the constitutional issue.
He also questioned the delay in the restoration of statehood to Jammu and Kashmir, recalling the assurances given earlier regarding the matter.
Referring to the issue of administrative powers, Abdullah said a National Conference Member of Parliament had met the Union Home Minister in January and was assured that the business rules clarifying the respective powers of the Lieutenant Governor and the elected government would be presented.
He questioned the delay in fulfilling that assurance. (JKNS)
