Srinagar: Senior National Conference (NC) leader Sakina Itoo, who took oath as a minister in the newly formed Omar Abdullah-led government on Wednesday said that the new government won’t discriminate on the basis on region or religion.
She also assured the public that the party is committed to fulfilling the people’s aspirations, particularly by pressing for the restoration of Jammu and Kashmir’s statehood.
Speaking exclusively to news agency KINS shortly after the swearing-in ceremony, Itoo said the mandate given to the National Conference and the responsibility it bears to meet the expectations of the people.
“The people of Jammu and Kashmir have given us a huge mandate, and we will ensure that their hopes are met with action. Our top priority will be the restoration of full statehood to Jammu and Kashmir. We won’t discriminate based on region on religion. Both regions Kashmir and Jammu will get equal representation. From Kashmir we have CM and Deputy CM is from Jammu,” Itoo said.
In addition to statehood, she highlighted the National Conference’s commitment to restoring the traditional Darbar Move, the bi-annual shifting of the capital between Srinagar and Jammu.
“The Darbar Move has been an integral part of Jammu and Kashmir’s administration, ensuring balanced attention to both Jammu and Srinagar. We will work towards reviving this tradition to bridge the gap between the two regions,” she added.
Sakina Itoo, a senior NC leader from South Kashmir, is one of the key figures in the Omar Abdullah-led government, which took office following the historic assembly elections.
On the recent electoral victory, Itoo said that the massive mandate given to the National Conference reflects the people’s desire for stability, development, and the protection of Jammu and Kashmir’s unique identity.
“This mandate shows that people trust us to lead them through these challenging times. We are aware of the responsibilities that come with it, and we are determined to deliver on every front, be it development, education, healthcare,” Itoo said. (KINS)