Srinagar: Union Minister Kiren Rijiju reaffirmed the central government’s commitment to restoring statehood to Jammu and Kashmir, stating that the process would take place at an appropriate time. However, he did not provide a specific timeline for the transition.
Addressing reporters in Srinagar, Rijiju emphasized that Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah have already indicated their intent to restore J&K’s statehood.
“The prime minister and home minister have made it clear in the past that statehood will be restored in due course, with powers and functions clearly demarcated,” Rijiju said.
When asked about the division of powers between the lieutenant governor and an elected chief minister, Rijiju avoided making a direct statement, saying his visit was primarily focused on the Union Budget rather than governance issues.
“At present, Jammu and Kashmir remains a Union Territory. The lieutenant governor is the administrative head, but we also have a recently elected government that is functioning successfully,” he added.
Waqf (Amendment) Bill & Budgetary Allocation for J&K
Speaking on the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, Rijiju asserted that it aims to ensure transparent management of Waqf properties for the benefit of the Muslim community. He claimed that key leaders, including Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu and Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, were supportive of the bill.
“Several Muslim MPs have privately expressed support for the bill, and thousands of Muslims, including women, have welcomed it,” he said.
Regarding the reduction in budgetary allocation for J&K in the 2025-26 fiscal, Rijiju clarified that the allocations were based on the Union Territory’s spending capacity and did not affect centrally-sponsored schemes.
“The finance minister has ensured that there is no shortage of resources. The allocations are made considering the spending capacity of J&K, and additional funds will be provided as needed,” he explained.
Boost for Horticulture & Handicrafts
Rijiju also highlighted that the Union Budget includes special provisions for horticulture farmers and handicraft artisans in Jammu and Kashmir.
“Special mission-mode initiatives have been introduced to promote exports of handicrafts and Kashmiri art. Small and medium-scale industries in J&K will see a significant boost after this Budget,” he said.
With continued focus on development and economic growth, the central government remains committed to ensuring J&K’s progress while keeping statehood restoration on the agenda. (Inputs with PTI)
