In a development reigniting political discourse across Jammu and Kashmir, Union Minister of State for Law and Justice Arjun Ram Meghwal dropped a significant hint on Tuesday about the restoration of statehood to the Union Territory. Speaking to reporters at the Sher-i-Kashmir International Conference Centre (SKICC) in Srinagar, Meghwal described the matter as “very sensitive” yet assured that a decision is imminent, reaffirming commitments made by Home Minister Amit Shah in Parliament.

The remarks, made post-event alongside Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, come 1.5 years after the elected government’s formation following Assembly polls. They underscore ongoing Centre-state engagements amid demands for full constitutional restoration post-Article 370 abrogation in 2019.

Minister Meghwal’s Key Statements

Addressing the media after a function at SKICC, Meghwal emphasized the Centre’s dedication: “Home Minister has assured in Lok Sabha that you will get it back—there’s a process. I think you will hear a decision very soon.” He framed it as fulfilling “what is due” to J&K’s people, without specifying timelines but signaling progress.

Meghwal’s visit coincided with judicial and legal events, highlighting Centre’s focus on J&K’s integration while addressing long-standing aspirations.

Omar Abdullah’s Measured Response

Present at the same venue, CM Omar Abdullah welcomed the overture with cautious positivity. “It has been one and a half years of wait. We hope we do not have to wait much longer,” he stated, noting continuous dialogues with Delhi. Abdullah stressed: “No one in Jammu and Kashmir will be satisfied until it’s done.”

The National Conference leader reiterated statehood as a constitutional right, not charity, amid Assembly protests and public anticipation.

Political Context and Reactions

Post-370 reorganization, J&K operates as UT with legislature, lacking full fiscal/legislative powers. Shah’s 2021 pledge tied restoration post-delimitation/elections, now complete. Delays fueled criticisms from NC, PDP, Congress.

Congress leader Raman Bhalla called it a “long-overdue promise,” warning delays erode trust. BJP’s J&K unit welcomed reaffirmation, while independents urged swift action. Protests outside Assembly demanded guarantees.

Stakeholders eye Supreme Court timelines on Article 370 petitions, influencing pace.

Implications for Jammu, Kashmir Regions

Restoration could devolve powers on police, finance, enhancing governance. Jammu seeks balanced development; Kashmir eyes autonomy revival. For daily lives, it promises faster decisions, investments.[cite:105]

As J&K navigates post-poll stability, this hint boosts morale amid tourism surges, infra projects.

Broader National Echoes

Delhi’s signals align with Viksit Bharat@2047, integrating J&K fully. Analysts predict elections post-statehood. Public sentiment mixes hope, skepticism after prolonged wait.

With ongoing talks, February 2026 could mark pivotal shift.