Srinagar Dec 04 (KNS): Jammu & Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Thursday said the authority to declare public holidays rests with the Centre, not the elected government of the Union Territory, adding that this is why J&K needs its full statehood back.

He said whether a holiday is declared on Sheikh Abdullah’s birth anniversary or not, the late leader’s place “resides in the hearts of the people.”

“Under the distribution of powers, the elected government here has not been given the authority to declare or remove a holiday. That power lies with the central government,” he said. “This is why we say give us back statehood so that we can take both big and small decisions ourselves.”

Omar said Sheikh Abdullah’s stature does not depend on official notifications. “There is no need for a holiday to remember the Sher-e-Kashmir. People remember him from their hearts,” he said, adding that even the best cadet in the passing-out parade was awarded the Sher-e-Kashmir Sword of Honour, reflecting the respect associated with his name.

Speaking to reporters, Omar said the Agni Veer scheme was a new model of recruitment, and the hope remains that those joining through it will uphold the regiment’s long tradition of unity, discipline, and national service.
“We expect that, like those who served before them, the new recruits will also strengthen the spirit of brotherhood and unity across the country,” he said.

Speaking on India–Russia ties in the context of President Vladimir Putin’s visit to India, Omar said Russia has consistently supported India on critical fronts.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel

“Russia has come forward to help us whether in supplying weapons or using its veto in the United Nations, especially in the Security Council,” he said as per KNS.
However, he expressed hope that Moscow would move towards de-escalation. “We hope Russia takes the path of peace and stops the attack on Ukraine,” he added.

On being asked naming changes in government institutions, Omar responded with a Shakespearean reference. “A rose by any other name will still smell as sweet,” he said, explaining that people care about governance and service, not labels.

“Whether you call it Raj Bhawan or Lok Bhawan, the purpose is the same that people should get comfort and timely service,” he said. He added that such steps are meaningful only when they improve public convenience.

Omar also said that government is committed to the Rehabilitation Assistance Scheme (RAS), previously known as SRO-43, under which a family member of a government employee who dies in service is given a job to help them withstand financial hardship.

He said the administrative process takes time but the government has cleared a significant number of cases and recently distributed around 60 appointment orders in Kashmir. He said departments have been instructed to set realistic schedules and strictly follow them.(KNS)