Political Landscape of Jammu and Kashmir

The changing political climate in Jammu and Kashmir is marked by the transition from a state to a union territory, which has sparked significant controversy and debate. Omar Abdullah, who has returned as Chief Minister after a decade, reflects on the surreal experience of reassuming power amidst these altered circumstances. His party, the National Conference, won the recent assembly elections, challenging his prior stance of not engaging with the union territory assembly due to its diminished status. Despite the contentious background and limited authority under the current arrangement, Abdullah emphasizes the importance of being actively involved to restore statehood and advocate for the rights of Jammu and Kashmir.