President’s Rule Revoked in J&K After Almost 6 Years; Omar Abdullah Set to Lead New Government

In a significant political development, the President’s rule in Jammu and Kashmir has been revoked, paving the way for the formation of a new government following the recently concluded assembly elections in the Union Territory. The Ministry of Home Affairs issued a gazette notification on Sunday, formally announcing the end of the President’s rule, which had been in effect since October 31, 2019.

The official order stated, “In exercise of the powers conferred by section 73 of the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Act, 2019 (34 of 2019) read with articles 239 and 239A of the Constitution of India, the Order dated the 31st October, 2019, in relation to the Union territory of Jammu and Kashmir shall stand revoked immediately before the appointment of the Chief Minister under section 54 of the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Act, 2019.”

This announcement comes just two days after National Conference (NC) Vice President Omar Abdullah met with Lieutenant Governor (LG) Manoj Sinha to stake his claim for the formation of the government. Abdullah presented letters of support that the NC received during the assembly elections, indicating broad backing for his party.

Following his meeting with LG Sinha, Abdullah hinted that the swearing-in ceremony could take place as early as Tuesday (October 15) or Wednesday (October 16), as the LG mentioned that completing the necessary paperwork would require 2-3 days.

NC President Farooq Abdullah emphasized the new government’s primary objective: restoring statehood to Jammu and Kashmir. He stated, “Our priority will be to unite Jammu and Kashmir and end the hatred spread during the election. Statehood must be restored so the state can function properly, and we can get on with our duties,” he told reporters.

The Congress party formally extended its support to the National Conference for forming the government, submitting a letter of backing on Friday. This coalition, which includes support from independents and the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), has solidified the NC’s claim to govern the region.

The formation of this government marks a historic moment as it will be the first elected government in Jammu and Kashmir since the abrogation of Article 370 and the reorganization of the former state into two Union Territories in 2019.

In the recent elections, which were held in three phases, a total of 90 seats were contested, with results announced on October 8. The NC-Congress alliance emerged victorious, securing 48 seats, while the NC led the coalition, with the Congress winning only six seats.

As Jammu and Kashmir prepares for a new chapter in its political landscape, the focus now shifts to the challenges ahead, including governance, unity, and the pressing demand for the restoration of statehood.