Jammu, Mar 03 (KNO): Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha Monday said the government is committed to fulfilling the long-standing demand of statehood to Jammu and Kashmir. He made the remarks during his address on the first day of the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly’s budget session in Jammu today.

The LG, as per news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), said that the government is dedicated to engaging with stakeholders until the desire for statehood is realised.

“The government is committed to restoring statehood to Jammu and Kashmir. We will continue to engage with all stakeholders to achieve this goal,” Sinha said.

The LG added that the government is committed to facilitate the return of Kashmiri pandits and create a safe and conducive environment for it.

He also said the government is committed to strengthen the Panchayat and Urban Local Bodies by ensuring timely elections in the Union Territory.

His remarks come amid heightened political activity in the region, with opposition parties gearing up to challenge the government on several contentious issues.

The budget session, which began today with the LG’s address, is expected to witness heated debates as opposition parties, including the BJP, the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), and the Peoples Conference, are set to corner the government on a range of issues.

Key issues likely to dominate the session include election commitments, the abrogation of Article 370, and the ongoing reservation row—(KNO)

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