Srinagar- Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Friday said the National Conference (NC) has requested its ally, Congress, to field a candidate from the Nagrota Assembly seat in the upcoming by-election next month, while NC will contest the Budgam seat. He added that the long-standing alienation between Jammu and Kashmir and New Delhi would end once statehood is restored.

Speaking to media persons in Anantnag, Omar reflected on the first year of his government, saying,“A year has passed, but we still have four years left. The work is before the people, and we stick to our promises. People should not judge us for a week, a month, or a year - we have been given a full term of five years.”

On the by-elections, he said Congress had sought consent from its high command for Nagrota.“We have assured our complete support to Congress if they field their candidate from Nagrota. Once approved, nominations will be filed, and Budgam will remain for NC,” he said.

Regarding the regularisation of daily wagers after CPWs, the Chief Minister said a committee headed by the Chief Secretary has made progress, and appropriate action will follow once the report is filed.

Omar dismissed allegations by Congress leader Vikar Rasool Wani, who accused him of keeping Congress away under the directions of Home Minister Amit Shah.“Why waste time responding to a leader who stood third in his constituency?” he said.

He emphasized that alienation persists due to the Union Territory setup.“We are deprived of statehood. Business Rules are not in place, the Advocate General is absent, and several organisations lack control of the elected government. Once statehood is restored, this alienation will end,” he added.

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