Atul Sharma
Early Times Report
Jammu, Oct 13: Amid growing curiosity and political speculation over the absence of Dr. Farooq Abdullah’s name from the list of National Conference candidates for the upcoming Rajya Sabha elections, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Sunday firmly clarified that the party’s veteran leader and president continues to be the tallest leader and guiding force of the organization.
Omar Abdullah described his father as a “source of inspiration, unity and direction” for every member of the National Conference, asserting that Dr. Abdullah’s decision not to contest the Rajya Sabha polls was entirely voluntary and based on his own discretion.
“Farooq Sahib is and will always remain the tallest leader of the National Conference. He is the guiding light of our party whose leadership and experience are unmatched,” Omar said while addressing reporters.
He said there was no question of anyone denying Dr. Abdullah a mandate, adding that the senior leader continues to command unquestionable respect and authority within the party.
“Had Farooq Sahib shown even the slightest interest in contesting the Rajya Sabha elections, who would have dared to deny him the mandate?” Omar asserted.
The Chief Minister revealed that Dr. Farooq Abdullah, out of his deep understanding of the evolving political situation, decided to step aside from contesting and instead chose to guide and mentor the younger generation of leaders.
“Dr. Sahib has dedicated his life to public service and continues to shape the party’s ideology and policies from the front,” Omar said.
Sources within the National Conference indicated that Dr. Abdullah himself advised the Parliamentary Board to focus on strengthening the party’s organizational base and allow fresh leadership to emerge through the Rajya Sabha polls.
Dr. Farooq Abdullah, one of the most prominent political figures of Jammu and Kashmir, has served multiple terms as Chief Minister and represented the state in the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha on several occasions.
Omar reminded that the National Conference draws its inspiration from Dr. Abdullah’s long political journey and enduring connection with the people of Jammu and Kashmir.
“His political stature extends beyond party lines. Farooq Sahib’s vision, secular outlook, and his role in safeguarding J&K’s interests have made him a towering figure in the state’s as well as nation’s political landscape,” Omar added.
Despite opting out of the Rajya Sabha race, Dr. Abdullah continues to play an active role in policy formulation, outreach programmes, and high-level consultations within the party. He regularly interacts with senior functionaries, advises the youth and women’s wings, and represents the NC in national-level political discussions.
Party insiders said that Dr. Abdullah has been presiding over several internal review meetings, focusing on strengthening the grassroots structure of the party ahead of the next electoral cycle.
“He remains deeply involved in every major decision. His vision for a peaceful, prosperous, and inclusive Jammu and Kashmir continues to guide us,” a senior NC leader said.
The clarification from Omar Abdullah has effectively ended speculation about any internal disagreement within the National Conference over ticket distribution. |
