Omar Abdullah Sworn In as Kashmir Chief Minister

Omar Abdullah has been sworn in as the chief minister of Jammu and Kashmir following the region's first local elections in a decade, which took place after a significant constitutional change in 2019 that revoked its special status. Abdullah's National Conference party won a majority in the 90-seat assembly, but the government remains largely powerless as Jammu and Kashmir is still classified as a union territory under direct federal control. The new administration has swiftly revoked orders that enhanced the powers of the Lieutenant Governor's Administrative Council, signaling a shift back to a government-led mechanism. However, the Congress party, despite providing support, has chosen not to join the new cabinet, expressing dissatisfaction over the lack of restored statehood. Meanwhile, Ladakh, which was separated from Jammu and Kashmir, feels sidelined without a legislative assembly, continuing to push for statehood and political representation. The new government faces skepticism regarding its limited authority and the ongoing aspirations of the people for greater autonomy.