Srinagar, Aug 20 (JKNS): Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Thursday said Pakistan’s decision to summon a US diplomat following the US Ambassador’s recent visit to J&K was a matter between Islamabad and Washington, while also sharing updates on the proposed modern abattoir in Srinagar, film festival, AIIMS Kashmir, Law University and private universities.
Speaking to reporters in Srinagar, CM Omar said Pakistan had summoned the US Chargé d’Affaires and not the US Ambassador after his meeting with the American envoy.
“That is a matter between Pakistan and the United States. I don’t think I have anything to say on that,” Omar said.
On the Congress party’s position on Kashmir and the US Ambassador’s remarks, the Chief Minister said the party was entitled to its political viewpoint and that he did not want to engage in a war of words.
“Congress is entitled to its political viewpoint. I don’t want to get into a war of words over this,” he said.
On the modern abattoir project in Srinagar, Omar said the Srinagar Municipal Corporation had revived the project, estimated to cost around ₹31 crore, and that it was expected to be completed within one-and-a-half years.
He said the facility would facilitate disease testing of sheep and provide halal certification before meat reaches the market.
“Whenever meat is sold in Srinagar, it should carry a market-authorised stamp so that people know it meets quality standards,” Omar said.
On the proposed film festival, the Chief Minister said its objective was not merely to bring Bollywood or Hollywood personalities to Kashmir, but also to expose local audiences to diverse cinema and create opportunities for local talent.
He said workshops in editing, directing, cinematography and music would help local technicians acquire skills and reduce dependence on professionals from outside.
On AIIMS, Omar said construction work was progressing rapidly and expressed hope that one of its blocks would become operational this year, with OPD and some other treatment facilities starting services.
Regarding the proposed Law University, Omar said the institution would be established and discussions were underway over its location.
“The file is almost ready,” he said, adding that the proposal would require the necessary approvals.
On private universities, the Chief Minister said one or two institutions were expected to come to Jammu and Kashmir in the coming weeks.
He said the government had finalised and released the rules following the passage of the relevant Act during the Budget Session, adding that the process for setting up private universities had now begun.
Omar further said foundation stones for some of the proposed private university projects could be laid soon. (JKNS)