Decision to restore J&K’s statehood rests with PM Modi: Union Minister Athawale

STC NEWS DESK
SRINAGAR, AUGUST 30 (STC): Amid flood fury owing to heavy rainfall and massive cloudbursts, issue of restoration of statehood to Jammu & Kashmir remains in limelight. This time Union Minister Ramdas Athawale disclosed that it’s restoration is the prerogative of the Prime Minister Narendra Modi. However, at the same time, heexpressed hope that statehood to J&K would be restored in the near future. “The decision rests with Prime Minister Narendra Modi,” he said.
“Last year assembly elections were held in which people participated in large numbers. Local body elections are also scheduled for October and November. Besides, we hope statehood is restored to Jammu and Kashmir very soon. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has to take a call, but I believe it will be restored soon,” Athawale told reporters in Srinagar on the sidelines of a function.
The Union Minister said that since the abrogation of Article 370 in August 2019, the region has witnessed an increase in employment opportunities with new industries coming up. “Tourists used to come in large numbers but the Pahalgam terror attack put a halt on it. Now tourists have again started visiting Kashmir in good numbers,” he said.
Recalling India’s firm stand against terrorism, Athawale said, “During Operation Sindoor, we taught Pakistan a lesson. India did not stop the war even on the request of the US President, but our aim was to eliminate terrorists.”
Meanwhile, Athawale assured that the government would extend all possible assistance to the victims of recent floods. “A survey is being carried out to assess the losses. The government will provide every possible relief to the flood-affected families,” he said.

(Straight Talk Communications)