Omar Abdullah asks PDP to withdraw its candidates, support NC
Says PDP essentially incorporated NC’s agenda into their own, blurring the lines between their agenda and ours Welcomes Sayim Mustafa into party fold
Srinagar, 25 Aug: The Vice President of the Jammu and Kashmir National Conference Omar Abdullah on Sunday emphasized the party’s unwavering commitment to pursuing the fight to reclaim Articles 370 and 35A.
He said this while welcoming the youth leader and political activist Sayim Mustafa into the party fold at a public meeting at Nunar, Ganderbal. The meeting was organized by Saim Mustafa. “I’m hopeful that Saim’s joining the NC fold will further strengthen the party’s traditional base and long-standing presence in the district Ganderbal.”
Party Treasurer Shammi Oberoi, Provincial President Nasir Aslam Wani, Members of Parliament Mian Altaf Ahmed, Aga Syed Ruhullah Mehdi, Political Advisor to VP Mudassar Shahmiri, District President Ghulam Nabi Rather, C/I Sheikh Ghiyasuddin and other leaders were also present on this occasion.
Emphasizing the importance of the upcoming assembly elections, Omar said, “While the outcome of our efforts may be uncertain, we cannot shirk our duty to serve the people. We will not stand idly by as our youth grapple with unemployment, our families endure hardships, and our children lack access to education. It is crucial that we persist in our fight while also addressing the needs of our community.”
Welcoming Sayim Mustafa to the National Conference, Omar underscored the critical importance of unity and the detrimental effects of division at this pivotal moment. He emphasized the missed opportunities and privileges that have slipped through our fingers due to our lack of cohesion. “If we had stood together, we could have proudly flown our own flag, enacted our own laws, and maintained a special status within the Indian Constitution. However, our disunity has silenced our collective voice, leaving us vulnerable to the challenges we now face. It is essential that we stand vigilant and united to protect our interests in all circumstances. Let us acknowledge our past errors and strive towards a future that is stronger and more unified,” he said.
Omar Abdullah criticized the PDP president, saying, “Mehbooba ji claims that if the National Conference accepts her agenda, she will not field her own candidates and will instead support the National Conference and the Congress. However, upon examining the PDP manifesto released yesterday, it is evident that it simply copies the National Conference’s manifesto. The PDP has essentially incorporated our agenda into their own, blurring the lines between their agenda and ours. Therefore, I urge them to withdraw their candidates and join forces with us to create a brighter future for Jammu and Kashmir.”
“It is crucial to distinguish between mere rhetoric and actual action. Let us not forget that it was the National Conference that provided unconditional support to the PDP in keeping the BJP out of government in 2015. This was a significant gesture of support that should not be overlooked,” he said adding, “Reaffirming our commitment to alleviating the hardships faced by the people, we have promised to address these issues head-on. Our manifesto has been presented to the public, outlining our plans to provide 200 units of free electricity and clean drinking water to those in need. Additionally, we have devised a comprehensive program to tackle unemployment and have pledged to distribute 12 free gas cylinders to the less fortunate. We also aim to restore the supply of sugar and kerosene while increasing the ration for those struggling to make ends meet. Let us work together to bring about positive change and prosperity for all.”
Omar Abdullah said that we will also make efforts to reduce the current atmosphere of fear and pressure. “For passports, jobs and bank loans, which our youth are being harassed in the name of CID verification, we will correct it. Our manifesto is before you and to implement it, full cooperation and participation of the people is needed in the assembly elections and I hope that the people of Jammu and Kashmir will make their native party National Conference a great success,” he said.
Omar Abdullah pledged to alleviate the prevailing atmosphere of fear, intimidation, and pressure. He promised to address the issue of harassment faced by the youth during CID verification processes for passports, job applications, and bank loans. “The National Conference’s manifesto outlines our vision for a better future, but we cannot achieve it without the full cooperation and participation of the people in the upcoming assembly elections. We are counting on the people of Jammu and Kashmir to support their native party, the National Conference, and help us achieve great success. Let’s work together to bring about positive change and progress for our region.”
