India, Dec. 18 -- Omar Abdullah on Wednesday described the office of Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister as that of "disempowerment", saying he is having the "unique misfortune" of transitioning from leading one of the country's most empowered states to a Union Territory with "far less power than any other state CM".

Speaking at an event, Abdullah minced no words in criticising the current administrative setup, alleging constant interference by the lieutenant governor.

He also demanded that the Centre define a clear "target" for the restoration of statehood.

Published by HT Digital Content Services with permission from Pioneer....