Omar Abdullah urges Election Commission to meet parties and clarify concerns over Special Intensive Revision
Sheikh Abdullah’s legacy needs no holiday for remembrance, says CM while reiterating demand for statehood
Srinagar, Dec 4: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Thursday said that the Election Commission of India (ECI) must hold an all-party meeting to dispel apprehensions surrounding the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. He urged the commission to engage political stakeholders directly to ensure transparency and restore public confidence in the electoral process.
“There are genuine apprehensions among political parties, and it would be appropriate for the Election Commission to meet leaders like us and clarify what the SIR entails,” Abdullah told reporters on the sidelines of the passing out parade of the JAKLI regiment. He cautioned that elections can be “manipulated even without tampering with machines,” implying that structural and procedural changes could influence outcomes.
The Chief Minister reiterated his long-standing criticism of the 2023 delimitation exercise, calling it a clear case of political manipulation. “Seven seats were created for political gains, benefitting one party or its allies. That is how elections get manipulated. The same fears are now emerging regarding SIR,” he said, adding that apprehensions must be addressed before the revision moves forward.
Abdullah also congratulated the 713 young recruits who passed out from the JAKLI Regimental Centre, highlighting the regiment’s deep emotional and historical bond with Jammu and Kashmir. He lauded their dedication and said the region takes pride in their service at the nation’s borders.
Responding to questions about Russian President Vladimir Putin’s visit to India, Abdullah emphasised the significance of longstanding Indo-Russian relations. He said Russia has consistently supported India during conflicts, diplomatic challenges, and global crises—through military assistance, strategic cooperation, and by exercising veto power at the United Nations when necessary.
“It is a welcome step that the Russian President is visiting India. If our ties strengthen further, it will benefit both countries,” he said. He added that India’s good relations with Russia should not worry anyone, and if Prime Minister Modi’s rapport with Putin helps nudge Moscow toward peace in Ukraine, it would be a diplomatic success for all sides.
When asked if Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah’s birth anniversary would be declared a public holiday, the Chief Minister clarified that the elected government in J&K currently does not have the authority to declare holidays. “I wish we had that power. But under the current division of powers, only the Centre can take such decisions. This is exactly why we demand restoration of statehood,” he said.
He added, however, that Sheikh Abdullah’s legacy does not depend on official holidays. “The best cadet received a sword named after Sher-e-Kashmir today. His contribution is remembered regardless of a holiday. People continue to honour him.”
Omar Abdullah concluded by asserting that democratic trust must be strengthened, governance powers must return to the people of J&K, and electoral processes must remain beyond any suspicion of manipulation.
