Srinagar, Jan 25: National Conference (NC) president, Dr Farooq Abdullah on Saturday said the significant voter turnout in both parliamentary and assembly elections in the region demonstrates the strong commitment to democratic values ingrained in the people of Jammu and Kashmir.
In his message on the 15th National Voters’ Day, Dr Farooq emphasised the significance of the people’s turnout during recent elections, showcasing their deep-rooted value for the right to vote – a right that was hard-earned through a struggle that began in 1931. “Notably, our people were pioneers in the country, setting the voting age at 18, a milestone that was later adopted nationwide after being successfully implemented in Jammu and Kashmir,” he said.
The NC chief highlighted the active participation of the people of J&K in elections, urging New Delhi to reciprocate their trust by restoring statehood and empowering the people to shape their own destiny.
He expressed confidence that the people’s voices would be heard and their rights respected, paving the way for a brighter future for the region.
Meanwhile, Dr Abdullah paid glowing tributes to Mirwaiz Moulana Ghulam Nabi Hamdani (RA) on his 66th death anniversary.
Paying tribute to the late Mirwaiz, Dr Farooq expressed deep admiration for his spiritual and scholarly gifts. “Mirwaiz Hamdani was a beacon of light, making great sacrifices for the social and political liberation of the people of Jammu and Kashmir. A close ally of Sheikh Sahab, he endured imprisonment alongside him in their shared quest for the restoration of the rights of the people. I offer my heartfelt tribute to him. Sheikh Sahab held Mirwaiz in the highest regard, recognizing his tireless efforts in uplifting the marginalized and impoverished. His intellectual legacy will be cherished for generations to come.”
In addition to Dr Farooq, General Secretary Ali Muhammad Sagar and other leaders including Sheikh Mustafa Kamal, Muhammad Shafi Uri, Chowdhary Muhammad Ramzan, Mubarak Gul, and Mian Altaf Ahmad also paid their respects to the late Mirwaiz Ghulam Nabi Hamdani.
