Srinagar: The Jammu and Kashmir Assembly on Wednesday passed a resolution supporting the establishment of a National Law University, with classes expected to begin next year. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah said they are identifying potential sites for the university and that a temporary campus could be located in Budgam district. He added that classes could begin as early as April 2026, as he has already reserved ₹50 crore for the university.
A private member’s resolution was introduced in the House by Congress MLA from Bandipora, Nizamuddin Bhat. Initially, he had demanded the campus be established in Bandipora district, which was opposed by MLAs from the opposition Bharatiya Janata Party.
In his response, Abdullah said he would not get involved in the controversy over whether the university would be established in Kashmir or the Jammu region. Instead, he favored it in Jammu and Kashmir. Citing the example of the IIM and Central University approved by the UPA government, he thanked Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh for establishing two Central Universities in Jammu and Kashmir, contrary to the provisions.
The Chief Minister further said, “He has done justice to both Jammu and Kashmir. Now, the location for the Law University will be decided after due deliberation. The location will be decided in due time. I will speak to the Chief Justice of the Jammu and Kashmir High Court and move the proposal forward.”
The Chief Minister said that once the NLU becomes operational, students from Jammu and Kashmir who are forced to pursue law studies outside will be able to do so within the Union Territory. Responding to allegations of slow progress on the NLU, Abdullah said, “The truth is that work is ongoing at the Civil Secretariat.” He added, “If we give you details on a daily basis, you’ll get tired of it.”
Furthermore, a motion regarding employment opportunities, moved by National Conference MLA Bashir Ahmad Veeri, was withdrawn after the Deputy Chief Minister assured job creation. Although the BJP and PDP had demanded a vote on the motion, it was withdrawn after it passed by voice vote.
