Omar Abdullah: J&K Assembly Elections a Step Towards Citizens' Rights

Omar Abdullah, ex-Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, highlighted the significance of upcoming Assembly elections for citizens' rights. Addressing a rally, he hinted at political vendetta against him and emphasized the strength of the National Conference contesting multiple seats. Elections are scheduled in three phases starting September 18.

National Conference leader Omar Abdullah, a former Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, has emphasized that the forthcoming Assembly elections are vital for realizing the rights of the Union Territory's citizens. In an election rally in Ganderbal, Abdullah asserted, "Even I believe that the Assembly elections we are going to contest are not for the Assembly we want. But this Assembly election will pave the way to the Assembly, which is our right. Through this election, we aim to send a message to the world that what has happened to us is unacceptable."

Abdullah suggested a potential political vendetta against him by Delhi leaders and referenced the recent Lok Sabha elections. "This is a strange election. I knew that the leaders in Delhi never liked me, but now I have realised they hate me. He recorded an audio clip and circulated it. Maybe it was my bad luck that I was defeated by him. I did not see any conspiracy in it at that time, but for the last two days, it seems like a conspiracy to me. I don't understand how those behind bars could file nominations only against me," he stated.

Vying for both Ganderbal and Budgam seats, Abdullah explained his decision to contest multiple seats. "Me contesting elections from two seats is not a proof of weakness, it is a proof of the strength of the National Conference. Whether it is Baramulla, Anantnag or Srinagar, the trend is seen in favour of the National Conference. As far as the last 5-6 years have been a period of misgovernance, allegations of corruption have been made, and all of them will be investigated," he said.

The National Conference and the Congress party are jointly contesting the Assembly polls in Jammu and Kashmir, with additional support from the Samajwadi Party (SP). Elections in the Union Territory are scheduled across three phases: September 18, 25, and October 1, with results expected on October 8.

(With inputs from agencies.)