Srinagar: Pulling the autonomy cord again, National Conference president Omar Abdullah on September 18 said the Centre would be compelled to restore autonomy to Jammu and Kashmir.

Addressing a series of rallies in Srinagar, Omar said the very fact that a BJP-led government at the Centre has initiated a dialogue with the state government on the issue of autonomy is a big leap towards the goal.

Omar, who led a procession of several boats in the famous Dal lake, said his party had not been demanding anything which went against the Constitution.

"The day is not far when the central government will be compelled to restore the autonomy of the state," he said.

"The Centre, though, has realised this. If our government is voted back to power, we will ensure that the dream and aspirations of the people come true," Omar, who is also Minister of State for External Affairs, said.

The Centre had appointed former Union Minister Arun Jaitley to hold talks with the state government for further devolution of powers. He had so far held two rounds of talks with Ghulam Mohammed Shah, the senior most minister in the Farooq Abdullah's Cabinet.

During his election rallies, Omar also promised efforts to make employment process more transparent, proper health care and other facilities.

PTI