A political storm erupted in Jammu and Kashmir after BJP leader Sushil Sharma referred to Chief Minister Omar Abdullah as a 'shehzaada' (prince) and asserted that statehood cannot be restored simply because he demands it. The remark drew a scathing response from Abdullah, who on Friday stated that denying statehood would be a betrayal of promises made to the people of the region.
Sharma's Remarks
Sharma, the Leader of Opposition in the J&K Assembly, criticized Omar on Thursday for persistently raising the statehood issue. Speaking to media, he said, 'It is not possible for statehood to be granted soon just because a shehzaada from Sheikh Abdullah's family has become the chief minister.' He added that statehood would take 'its own time' and advised the CM to focus on fulfilling his promises, such as providing free electricity, LPG cylinders, and jobs.
Omar's Sharp Response
Reacting strongly, Omar posted on X: 'Finally a bit of honesty from the BJP — the people of J&K are to be punished and denied statehood because they voted for JKNC. So much for their tall promises and claims.' He also took a dig at Sharma, who was in Assam campaigning for elections, remarking that the J&K Assembly was 'quiet and far more productive' in the LOP's absence.
Support from NC Leaders
National Conference minister Javed Rana asserted that restoring statehood is not just a constitutional obligation but also essential for effective governance and accelerated development in J&K. NC spokesperson and legislator Tanvir Sadiq criticized Sharma's statement, saying 'the politics of BJP in J&K has sunk to a new low.' He added, 'Resorting to name-calling against an elected CM only exposes the frustration within their ranks. Sunil Sharma's remarks are not just petty, they reflect a deeper insecurity. J&K deserves serious politics, not schoolyard jibes. If anything, such comments only reinforce the growing perception that BJP's local leadership is struggling to stay relevant.'
