NC leaders urge Omar to reconsider decision of not contesting polls

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Aug 17: Several National Conference (NC) leaders today requested the party’s Vice-President Omar Abdullah to reconsider his decision of not contesting the Assembly polls while Jammu and Kashmir remains a Union Territory.
They emphasized that Omar’s leadership has been a beacon of hope for the people of the region.
In a joint statement issued from Sher-e-Kashmir Bhawan here, the NC leaders credited Omar Abdullah’s unwavering commitment to the restoration of the democracy in Jammu and Kashmir as a key factor, alongside the Supreme Court’s directives, in the Election Commission of India announcing the three-phase election schedule.
The appeal was signed by NC Additional General Secretary and former Minister Ajay Kumar Sadhotra, along with four Zonal Presidents of Jammu Province including Sajjad Ahmed Kitchloo, former Minister; Javed Ahmed Rana, former Deputy Chairman of the Legislative Council; Ram Paul, former Minister; and Abdul Gani Malik, former Minister.
The leaders asserted that Omar Abdullah’s leadership is crucial not only for the NC rank and file but also for the people of both Jammu and Kashmir, regardless of religion, caste or creed.
They highlighted his forward-looking vision, decisive leadership, and commitment to democratic values, which have significantly influenced party policies.
Reaffirming their support, the senior leaders expressed confidence that under Omar Abdullah’s dynamic leadership, the National Conference will emerge stronger in the upcoming elections, which they believe will be pivotal in restoring Jammu and Kashmir’s Statehood and its former glory.
“We urge Omar Abdullah to respect the aspirations of millions of NC workers and the people of J&K by reconsidering his decision. His participation is not just a personal choice but a reflection of the collective will of the party,” the statement read.
The leaders also voiced hope that, under the leadership of Dr Farooq Abdullah and Omar Abdullah, Jammu and Kashmir will regain its Statehood and the rights of its people.
They pledged to work together to usher in a new era of peace, progress and prosperity.