Omar Abdullah is all set to become the Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir once again, with his swearing-in ceremony scheduled for October 16th. This development follows the National Conference-led alliance’s successful claim to form a government in the state. The alliance, which includes the Congress, CPI(M), AAP, and independent legislators, secured a majority in the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly, paving the way for Abdullah’s return to the top post.
This marks the return of an elected government to Jammu and Kashmir after a period of six years under President’s Rule, which was implemented following the abrogation of Article 370. The new government will be the first democratically elected administration since the constitutional changes.
Speaking to the media, the CM-designate, Omar Abdullah, outlined the steps needed to formalize the formation of the government. He explained that the coalition will need to prepare a cabinet note to formally end President’s Rule, which will then be sent to the Rashtrapati Bhavan (President’s House) and the Union Home Ministry. These procedures are expected to be completed by Monday, allowing the oath-taking ceremony to proceed on Wednesday.
The National Conference secured 42 seats in the 2024 Jammu and Kashmir Assembly Elections, while the Congress won 6 seats. The support of the CPI(M), AAP, and independent legislators solidified the coalition’s majority in the 95-member Assembly. The Lieutenant Governor is responsible for nominating 5 seats.
This will be Omar Abdullah’s second term as Chief Minister. His first tenure, which spanned from 2009 to 2014, was also a coalition government between the National Conference and the Congress. Abdullah’s return to the Chief Ministership signifies the return of democratic governance to Jammu and Kashmir and the people’s choice in electing their representatives.
