What Led to the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly's Push for Full Statehood?

The Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly has passed a resolution calling for the restoration of full statehood, amidst significant opposition protests from the BJP. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah emphasized the need for this resolution, referencing past calls for autonomy and special status. The BJP's dissent included dramatic protests within the assembly, highlighting the ongoing political tensions in the region. This article delves into the implications of the resolution and the reactions from various political factions, providing insight into the complex landscape of Jammu and Kashmir's governance.

By Narendra Chaudhary Sep 28, 2026, 14:41 IST

Jammu and Kashmir Assembly Calls for Restoration of Statehood

Srinagar: On Monday, the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly adopted a resolution urging the immediate restoration of full statehood, despite a walkout by the opposition BJP.

The resolution was initially proposed by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah the previous Friday but was postponed to allow further discussion.

During both Friday and Monday sessions, BJP members expressed their dissent by entering the well of the House, tearing up official documents, and staging mock proceedings.

The resolution stated, “In addition to the resolutions passed by this House on June 26, 2000, and November 6, 2024, we call upon the Government of India for the urgent restoration of full statehood to Jammu and Kashmir and resolve to forward this resolution to the Government of India.”

Previously, the NC-led government under Farooq Abdullah had passed a resolution in June 2000 advocating for greater autonomy, similar to what existed before August 9, 1953.

On November 6, 2024, another resolution was passed, seeking the restoration of special status.

Several assembly members, including those from the ruling National Conference (NC), proposed amendments to the resolution, with many advocating for the inclusion of a demand for special status.

However, during the debate, the Chief Minister urged members to retract their amendments, suggesting they were falling into a trap set by the BJP.

He stated, “This House has already passed resolutions twice for special status—once during Farooq Abdullah's tenure and again in 2024 after this government was formed. Special status is unique to us. We have requested the Centre to restore the special provisions that existed before 2019. I urge my colleagues not to push the amendments that would give the BJP a reason to oppose it.”

After the Chief Minister's request, the Speaker inquired if the members intended to withdraw their amendments, to which all eight MLAs consented.

The Speaker then called for a vote on the resolution, despite ongoing protests from BJP members.

The resolution was ultimately approved through a voice vote, following the BJP's walkout.

The BJP criticized the resolution's references to autonomy and special status, labeling it an affront to the Constitution and vowed to prevent any further discussion on the matter.