Examiner Bureau | Srinagar:
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Wednesday said issues concerning Jammu and Kashmir must be resolved by the Centre and not by Washington, ruling out raising any grievances or seeking solutions from the visiting US Ambassador to India and Special Envoy for South and Central Asian Affairs Sergio Gor.
Gor is scheduled to arrive in Jammu and Kashmir on Wednesday for his maiden visit to the Union Territory. During his stay in Srinagar, he is expected to meet Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah separately.
Speaking to reporters, Abdullah said he would discuss Jammu and Kashmir and the broader regional situation with the US envoy but would not approach him with complaints or seek his intervention in resolving issues concerning the Union Territory.
The Chief Minister said the meeting was taking place after a considerable gap and that he looked forward to the interaction.
“I would prefer to listen to him more, but he is also coming to listen. Let us see what kind of discussion takes place,” Abdullah said.
He made it clear that the meeting would be an opportunity for an exchange of views rather than a forum for seeking external intervention in matters concerning Jammu and Kashmir.
Earlier in the day, Abdullah undertook an early-morning tour of Srinagar, during which he inspected and reviewed several ongoing developmental projects across the city.
The Chief Minister said most of the projects reviewed during the tour were progressing satisfactorily, although some required an additional push from the administration to ensure timely completion.
Meanwhile, responding to allegations by the BJP regarding corruption in appointments, Abdullah said investigative agencies such as the Jammu and Kashmir Police, Crime Branch and Anti-Corruption Bureau were not under his direct control.
“If corruption has actually taken place, an investigation should be conducted, a case registered and action taken against those responsible,” he said.
The Chief Minister’s remarks came amid heightened political exchanges in Jammu and Kashmir, with the BJP stepping up its criticism of the National Conference-led government over governance and alleged irregularities, while the administration has maintained that allegations of wrongdoing should be investigated through due legal process.
