J&K CM Omar likely to meet HM Shah today

Inaugurates MRI, CT scan at Jammu charitable hospital

Jammu: The Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah is expected to meet Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Wednesday to discuss key issues, including the restoration of statehood, business rules, reports said.
This will mark Omar Abdullah’s second meeting with the Home Minister since assuming office as Chief Minister of the Union Territory.
Reports suggest that Omar remains optimistic about the Union Government’s commitment to restoring statehood, having received “positive assurances” during his previous meeting with Amit Shah.
However, despite repeated promises, the Centre has yet to announce a definitive timeline for the restoration process.
Apart from statehood, the Chief Minister is likely to raise concerns regarding the administrative challenges posed by the absence of the Transaction of Business Rules (TBR).
More than two months after the formation of the elected government, the lack of these rules has created friction between the Chief Minister-led administration and the office of the Lieutenant Governor, leaving key powers and responsibilities undefined.
The unresolved dual control over various departments and administrative matters has reportedly led to inefficiencies, further highlighting the urgency of implementing the TBR to streamline governance in the region.
The meeting is expected to be a critical step toward resolving these pressing issues, with hopes that the Centre will provide clearer direction on statehood and administrative reforms.
Earlier, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Tuesday inaugurated a state-of-the-art MRI and CT scan centre at a charitable hospital here, assuring continued government support to the hospital.
Abdullah praised the Swami Vivekananda Medical Mission hospital (SVMM) for its commitment towards providing affordable and high-quality healthcare.
“This institution stands as a beacon of service, offering quality healthcare at rates even lower than government hospitals,” he said.
The chief minister highlighted the hospital's inspiring journey, which began as a small dispensary and has grown into a reputable medical institution.
He called this transformation “remarkable and worthy of admiration.”
Abdullah also acknowledged the hospital's exceptional work in its neo-natal section, where the infant ICU boasts a 100 per cent recovery rate.
“Such achievements provide immense reassurance to parents and underline the hospital’s dedication to excellence,” he added.
The chief minister toured the hospital, interacted with staff and patients, and reviewed various departments to gain firsthand insights.
He emphasized the importance of serving humanity, stating, “To serve God, we must serve humanity.”
Abdullah assured continued government support for the hospital and pledged assistance to help it expand its services and strengthen its healthcare initiatives.