Fayaz Bukhari
Srinagar, Aug 17: Former Chief Minister and National Conference (NC) leader Omar Abdullah today said that the name of the founder of his party can be removed from the buildings but not from the hearts of the people.
Omar told reporters here while responding to a question of erasing of Sher-e-Kashmir from various institutions that the Government can remove the name of the Sher-e-Kashmir Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah from the buildings in Jammu and Kashmir but not from the hearts of the people. Click here to watch video
“You can remove their names from the buildings, but you cannot erase them from the hearts. Removing the name of Sher-e-Kashmir from the SKICC, SK Cricket Stadium, or hospital makes no difference as the truth cannot be hidden,” he said.
The NC leader said that the Chief Justice of India (CJI) has brought the truth to light before the people. “Even if you remove the names from the buildings, the essence remains,” he added.
Omar said that today they may erase it, and tomorrow, another political party might reinstate it upon regaining power.
“However, always remember, the name of Sher-e-Kashmir will endure, and those attempting to expunge it will fade into obscurity, their names forgotten. The name of Sher-e-Kashmir will remain in the hearts of the people,” he added.
He showed optimism in the restoration of Article 370 by the Apex Court. “We are advocating for the restoration of Article 370 in the Supreme Court and hope that justice will be done. As I mentioned in my speech, we have left no stone unturned, engaging the best lawyers, whose performance in the court has garnered admiration. The case is ongoing, and we remain optimistic that our arguments will persuade the judges. Though it is a long journey, we patiently await the outcome,” he said.
Regarding forming of PCS, a Government body for holding competitive examinations for Government jobs, in Jammu and Kashmir, Omar said that whatever this Government has brought here has failed.
“Whatever have they brought in so far has failed. The accountability of Aptech remains unresolved, as no comprehensive lists have been compiled. Now, the introduction of PCS is suggested,” he added.
“Were not lists formulated in a transparent manner before 2019? Were not people recruited then? Various Governments over the years have overseen recruitment here. Why is the current Governor’s administration struggling with this task? It is unnecessary to introduce PCS; instead, the focus should be on strengthening existing recruitment agencies like JKSSB or JKPSC by appointing competent people. When the right individuals are involved, the processes will naturally improve,” Omar said.
Follow our WhatsApp channel
