J& K Will Get Statehood at the Right Time: Union Minister

Union Minister Kiren Rijiju stated on Saturday that Jammu and Kashmir will be granted statehood at an appropriate time, as assured by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah. However, Rijiju, who holds the portfolios of Parliamentary Affairs and Minority Affairs, declined to provide a specific timeline for the restoration of statehood.

PM Modi’s Clear Stand on Statehood

"The Prime Minister and Home Minister have already made it clear that, over time, Jammu and Kashmir’s statehood will be restored, and the division of powers will be clearly defined," Rijiju told reporters.

The MP from Arunachal West, who was on a visit to Kashmir to discuss the Union Budget, clarified that his trip was not related to political or administrative matters. He refrained from commenting on the timeline for restoring statehood or the division of powers between the Lieutenant Governor and an elected Chief Minister.

"I don’t want to get into political or administrative discussions. As of now, Jammu and Kashmir remains a Union Territory. The Lieutenant Governor is the administrative head, but we also have an elected government. It is a successful and recently elected government," he added.

Support from Muslim MPs

When asked whether leaders like Naidu and Kumar supported the bill, Rijiju confidently responded that several Muslim MPs had privately expressed their support.

"Many Muslim MPs, including thousands of Muslim women, have welcomed this decision," he said.

Budget Allocations Based on Statehood Status

Regarding the budget reduction for Jammu and Kashmir for the 2025-26 fiscal year, Rijiju explained that allocations were made based on the Union Territory’s expenditure capacity.

The Finance Minister clarified that budget allocations depend on the status of the Union Territory and its ability to utilize funds. She assured that necessary financial support would be provided as required.

Additionally, the budget includes relief for horticulture farmers and handicraft artisans in Jammu and Kashmir, considering the region's unique circumstances.