Jammu and Kashmir CM Omar Abdullah says Article 370 isn’t to blame for stalled development and statehood

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah told The Hindu Huddle that the revocation of Article 370 did not cause the region’s lack of development; instead, three decades of militancy created an unsafe environment that deterred investment. He argued that similar land‑ownership and entry restrictions exist in places such as Lakshadweep and the Northeast without attracting the same criticism.

Abdullah also condemned the centre for delaying the restoration of full statehood to the Union Territory, calling the 2019 revocation the “biggest policy mistake.” He said the government is operating “with one‑and‑a‑half hands tied behind its back,” lacking control over key appointments and security, and demanded a clear “yardstick” for when statehood will be granted. He highlighted that despite a completed delimitation and record voter turnout, the promised third step—statehood—remains absent. Abdullah added that Ladakh is experiencing “buyer’s remorse” after its separation, and he urged South Indian film industries to shoot in Kashmir to boost tourism.