Jammu and Kashmir CM Omar Abdullah presented the budget on March 7th. After delivering a 1 hour 40-minute-long speech during Ramadan, he stated that he would not present budgets during Ramadan in the future.
Jammu Kashmir Budget: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah presented the state's budget on Friday. During this, he stated that he would never again present the budget while fasting during the holy month of Ramadan. Speaking to reporters after presenting the budget, he mentioned that this was the first budget presented in the state since 2018 and his first experience presenting a budget as the Finance Minister.
1 Hour 40-Minute-Long Speech During Ramadan Fast
In the Legislative Assembly, Omar Abdullah delivered an uninterrupted speech lasting 1 hour and 40 minutes. He was observing a fast, which caused him some discomfort towards the end of the speech. When reporters asked him if delivering a long speech while fasting was difficult, he responded that the budget session could have been called earlier. He stated that he would not present budgets during Ramadan in the future, and if it became necessary, he would request permission from the Speaker to present the budget after Iftar.
Praise for the Prime Minister and Union Ministers
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, during his budget speech, commended Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, and Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman for their cooperation in the economic development of Jammu and Kashmir. He mentioned meeting with the Prime Minister and Home Minister on several occasions and receiving full cooperation from the central government each time.
Omar Abdullah Seen in Traditional Attire
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah was seen in traditional attire while presenting the budget. He wore a traditional Khan suit with a blue blazer and cap. He began his budget speech with the Persian couplet "Tan hama daag daag shud - pum ba koja koja neham" (My whole body is scarred, where shall I apply balm?).
No Disruptions During the Budget Speech
Complete order was maintained in the House during Chief Minister Omar Abdullah's budget speech. During his 1 hour and 40-minute-long speech, ruling party MLAs thumped their desks four times in support. No member caused any disruption during the budget speech, and all legislators listened attentively.
