RINAGAR, Sept 23: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today said that ensuring peace in Jammu and Kashmir was not the responsibility of his government, but of those entrusted with the task.
Speaking to reporters after unveiling the Peace Jersey of Real Kashmir FC in collaboration with Danish sports brand Hummel at TRC Ground, Srinagar, Omar remarked:
“Thank God there is something we are not being blamed for. Ensuring peace is not the responsibility of my Government. The responsibility lies with those in charge, and they must fulfill it.”
The Chief Minister said peace was vital for all sectors to thrive. “Tourism, sports, or even a day-night match — nothing is possible without a peaceful atmosphere,” he stressed.
Highlighting his government’s push for sports, Omar said infrastructure had been developed across almost every Assembly segment, with district-level day-night sports facilities also in the pipeline.
He also announced that the second segment of the Kashmir Marathon would be held on November 2, inviting athletes nationwide to participate.
On farmers’ losses due to highway closures and floods, the CM assured that compensation assessments were underway. He added that while the highway was functional, a 300-meter damaged stretch would soon be restored.
The newly launched Peace Jersey, inspired by Hari Parbat Fort and featuring motifs of mountains and doves in sky-blue tones, will be available online from September 21. The CM praised Real Kashmir FC for “promoting football as a bridge of unity and peace.”