Srinagar, Feb. 17 -- Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Tuesday said that the process for restoration of statehood to the Union Territory is "underway" even though it has taken longer than expected, but expressed hope that the wait may not be much longer.

Speaking about the demand for the restoration of full statehood to Jammu and Kashmir, Abdullah said that while there had been expectations of a quicker resolution, discussions with the Centre are ongoing.

"The process is underway, and the process has taken more time. We had hoped that by now, statehood would have been granted, but we have not yet given up hope. We are continuously talking to the central government about this matter...now we hope that we won't have to wai...