Omar Abdullah Sworn in as Jammu & Kashmir's First CM Post Article 370 Repeal

In a historic event, National Conference leader Omar Abdullah was sworn in today as the Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir in Srinagar. Abdullah becomes the first Chief Minister of the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir following the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019. The removal of the article led to the bifurcation of the former state into two Union Territories—Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh.

This marks Abdullah’s second term as Chief Minister, having previously served from January 5, 2009, to January 8, 2015. The oath was administered by Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha at the Sher-e-Kashmir International Convention Centre in Srinagar. Reports suggest that the Lieutenant Governor will swear in only four other elected legislators as ministers.

Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi, Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra attended the swearing-in ceremony in Srinagar to show their support for Abdullah.

Congress Remarks on the Swearing-In

Congress MP Dr. Syed Naseer Hussain commented on the occasion, stating, “After a long gap, elections were held in Jammu and Kashmir, and it was evident that a coalition government with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) would be formed. Jammu and Kashmir has suffered greatly over the past 10 years, and now we hope for a transparent government focused on development. The people of Jammu and Kashmir need to be active in these efforts, and discussions on their progress should take center stage.”

Surinder Kumar Choudhary Appointed Deputy Chief Minister

Omar Abdullah has appointed Surinder Kumar Choudhary as Deputy Chief Minister. Choudhary won his seat from Nowshera, defeating BJP leader Ravinder Raina.

In addition to Abdullah, five cabinet ministers were sworn in, including Satish Sharma, Sakina Yatoo, Javed Dar, Surinder Choudhary, and Javed Rana.