Says PM Have Fulfilled Two Promises, Time To Live Up Another pledge
New Delhi: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, on Monday, urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to honour his commitment to restoring statehood.
Addressing a gathering at the inauguration of the Sonamarg tunnel, Abdullah commended the prime minister for fulfilling two of the three promises he made during his speech in Srinagar after assuming office for the third consecutive term last year. “The two promises, including addressing the ‘Delhi ki Doori’ (distance from Delhi) and holding assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir, have been fulfilled by you” the CM said, and added that the third promise of restoring statehood remains unfulfilled.
“People here, including media persons, often ask me about this. My heart believes that you will fulfil this promise soon,” he said.
Omar began his speech by paying tribute to the seven construction workers and a doctor who lost their lives during an attack at Gagangeer in October.
“They sacrificed their lives for this project and the progress of the nation,” he said. “Sadly, for the past 35 years, the people of Jammu and Kashmir have sacrificed so much for the development of this nation. I come from a party that has made significant sacrifices for the country.”
He said the prime minister’s presence at the event sends a strong message to those who oppose progress, peace and democracy in Jammu and Kashmir. “They will not succeed and will face defeat from here onwards,” he said.
Earlier Prime Minister Modi said that the dream of a developed India will be realized when its crown, Kashmir, is adorned with the jewels of progress. He expressed his desire for Kashmir to become even more beautiful and prosperous. He noted the continuous support from the youth, elders, and children of the region in this endeavor. The Prime Minister emphasized that the people of Jammu and Kashmir are working diligently to turn their dreams into reality, contributing to the progress of the region and the nation. Concluding his address, the Prime Minister assured the people that he will support them unflinchingly in all their endeavours and extended his heartfelt congratulations to every family in Jammu and Kashmir for the development projects.
This is Modi’s first visit to Jammu and Kashmir after the assembly elections in September-October last year.
The 6.5-km-long two-lane bi-directional road tunnel between Gagangir and Sonamarg in central Kashmir’s Ganderbal district is equipped with a parallel 7.5-metre escape passage for emergencies.
Situated at an altitude of over 8,650 feet above sea level, the tunnel will enhance all-weather connectivity between Srinagar and Sonamarg en route to Leh, bypassing routes prone to landslides and avalanches.
It will also promote tourism by ensuring year-round connectivity to Sonamarg.