Srinagar, Oct 9: In the wake of the Assembly election results, celebrations were in full swing at the residence of the Abdullah family. The sons of Omar Abdullah, former Chief Minister and Vice President of the Jammu and Kashmir National Conference (NC), expressed their optimism about the newly elected government’s commitment to the people. Speaking to the media, Omar’s son, Zahir Abdullah, described the election outcome as a “significant victory” for not only the NC but also the people of Jammu and Kashmir.
Zahir highlighted that the elections symbolize the return of representational democracy to the region, allowing the people of Jammu and Kashmir to have their voices heard through their elected representatives. “This is the first time people have had the opportunity to express their opinions through democratic means,” Zahir stated, emphasizing the importance of the election in restoring public participation. He acknowledged the widespread support the NC received, adding, “We are humbled by the mandate, and we are determined to meet the expectations of the people.”
In his message to the youth of Jammu and Kashmir, Zahir urged them to stay informed and actively engage with the political and social developments around them. “The youth must be aware of what’s happening. They need to follow the news and understand the dynamics shaping their future,” he said, emphasizing the importance of an informed and active youth population in a democratic society.
Omar’s younger son, Zamir Abdullah, echoed his brother’s sentiments, noting that people’s enthusiasm and celebrations reflect their sense of hope and relief after years of political uncertainty. He pointed out that after nearly a decade without an elected government, people are eager to witness the restoration of governance and accountability. “The joy and enthusiasm seen among the people show their belief that, for the first time in years, their voices are finally being represented by the NC,” Zamir stated.
Zamir also addressed the political situation in Jammu and Kashmir over the past several years, remarking that the people had faced suppression and were denied the opportunity to raise their concerns. “For the last seven years, people have been suppressed. This is the first time they are stepping forward. It’s a sign that the public’s voice has come to the forefront through the NC,” he asserted.
Looking ahead, Zamir affirmed his support for restoring statehood to Jammu and Kashmir. He emphasized that the Union Government should honor the democratic will of the people and reinstate statehood. “Now that the people have chosen their government, the Union Government should respect their decision and restore statehood. We will fight for it; Jammu and Kashmir won’t remain a Union Territory for long,” he declared.
When questioned about the possible Chief Minister candidate, Zamir expressed that the decision would be left to the party and its alliance, stating, “Time will tell. The party and alliance will decide that; I have no involvement in this matter.”
Addressing the situation following the abrogation of Article 370 in August 2019, Zamir criticized the narrative presented outside the region. He argued that the voices of the people had been ignored and that a “false narrative” had been propagated about the situation in Jammu and Kashmir. “A lie was spread across the country that the people of J&K were happy with what was done on August 5, 2019. This is far from the truth, and we are here to change that narrative,” Zamir emphasized, reaffirming his commitment to advocating for the rights and aspirations of the people.