Omar Abdullah Emerges as Kashmir’s Most Watched Leader, Pushes Hard on Power, Jobs and Statehood

Tariq Bhat 

Srinagar

Chief Minister Omar Abdullah continues to be the most watched political figure on television and online search platforms in Kashmir over the last month. His statements on electricity reform, jobs for daily wage workers, and the long-standing demand for full statehood have sparked discussion across districts, especially as people look for leadership with a clear plan for the future.

 

 

 

 

 

In recent weeks, the Omar Abdullah government has announced plans to ease the electricity burden on households. Officials say the administration is preparing to provide 200 units of free electricity to eligible families, a move meant to support poor and middle-class households in the Union Territory. The Chief Minister’s office has also clarified that there will be no general hike in power tariffs this financial year, reassuring users who were worried about rising bills.

 

 

 

 

 

Despite this, some social media voices and viewers have expressed frustration. A section of the public has questioned the pace of delivery on electricity promises and called for quicker implementation of free-unit schemes. Online discussions show strong interest and concern over how energy policies are affecting daily life in both towns and rural areas. 

Jobs and Daily Wagers

On employment, Omar Abdullah and his cabinet have repeatedly highlighted the need to regularise daily wage workers and contractual staff in government departments. Senior party leaders say the government is working to finalize the policy and will move forward with the process soon. While this announcement has been welcomed by many, some workers are urging clearer timelines and faster action.

 

 

 

Statehood vs UT Status

One of the most searched topics in Kashmir remains Abdullah’s stance on restoring full statehood for Jammu and Kashmir. The Chief Minister has been firm in saying the current Union Territory arrangement is not the ideal model for governance and development. He argues that full statehood with all constitutional powers is essential to address the region’s unique needs and lay the foundation for long-term prosperity.

 

 

 

 

 

 

National media coverage has shown the Centre and the administration having differing views on statehood. Central leaders have, at times, been cautious about timelines for full restoration, which has kept the debate alive in public forums. This tug between expectations in Kashmir and the Central government’s position has kept statehood at the top of search trends and public discussion.

 

 

 

 

 

Locally, the Omar Abdullah government has also taken a clear position against separate statehood for the Jammu region while advocating for unity and greater administrative integration with Ladakh, a stance that has drawn mixed reactions.

Looking Ahead

Omar Abdullah’s leadership over the last month has been marked by a mix of policy promises, public engagement, and criticism. As Kashmir navigates key issues like electricity affordability, job security, and the political future of its governance model, the Chief Minister’s words and actions remain at the center of public interest and debate.