Abdullah emphasized the profound impact of the gun culture on the NC, asserting that no other political entity has suffered as gravely.
Former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister and National Conference (NC) Working President, Omar Abdullah, shed light on the devastating toll of the region’s pervasive gun culture on his party, revealing that the NC has endured significant losses, with over 4000 workers falling victim during the peak of militancy.
Speaking to reporters in Anantnag on Thursday, Abdullah emphasized the profound impact of the gun culture on the NC, asserting that no other political entity has suffered as gravely. He attributed the genesis of this culture to certain forces and lamented the heavy toll exacted on his party, including the loss of senior members, leaders, and legislators.
“NC is the worst sufferer of the gun culture. We have lost over 4000 senior workers, leaders, and party legislators. There is no other party that has borne such immense losses,” Omar Abdullah stated.
Expressing disappointment with Home Minister Amit Shah’s perceived lack of recognition for the sacrifices endured by the NC amidst adversity, Abdullah underscored the need for solidarity from all political factions within the INDIA alliance to bolster the candidacy of senior NC leader Mian Altaf Ahmad, who filed nomination papers during the event.
Abdullah also conveyed gratitude on behalf of NC President Dr. Farooq Abdullah to former Jammu and Kashmir Congress chief Ghulam Ahmad Mir for his steadfast support, despite rescheduling prior engagements in New Delhi to prioritize the electoral campaign.
Responding to queries about former J&K Congress leader Ghulam Nabi Azad’s decision not to contest the Lok Sabha elections from the Anantnag-Rajouri Parliamentary seat, Abdullah expressed no surprise, citing Azad’s previous absence from the Doda constituency.
“There is no surprise. We already knew that he (Azad) would not contest elections from the Anantnag-Rajouri seat, especially after not contesting from Doda. Now they have fielded another party candidate to showcase their presence. The outcome of the elections will reveal the level of public support they command,” Omar Abdullah remarked.
The statements from Abdullah underscore the complex political landscape in Jammu and Kashmir, marked by historical grievances and ongoing challenges, as parties maneuver ahead of the upcoming Lok Sabha elections.