Srinagar, Sept 11: National Conference (NC) on Thursday held a crucial meeting of party functionaries from the three assembly segments of Hazratbal, Habba Kadal, and Lal Chowk, which was presided over by senior party leaders and sitting MLAs Salman Ali Sagar (Hazratbal), Shameema Firdous (Habba Kadal), and Ahsan Pardesi (Lal Chowk).
The meeting witnessed the participation of local Block Presidents and grassroots-level office bearers. A range of organisational matters were discussed at length, including the ongoing public outreach programmes, redressal mechanisms for urban grievances, and strengthening the Party’s connect with the people at the constituency level, the party said in a statement issued here.
During the session, the functionaries strongly condemned the recent incident of unauthorised iconography at the revered Hazratbal Shrine. Terming it as a “deliberate attempt by certain elements to disturb the peace and communal harmony” in Kashmir, the leaders called for immediate accountability and action.
They questioned the role of the J&K Waqf Board, demanding a high-level inquiry into the matter and strict action against the officials involved, including the Waqf Chairman. “The shrine holds immense religious and emotional significance for the people of Jammu and Kashmir,” they said.
“Sheikh Muhammad Abdullah, Dr Farooq Abdullah, and Omar Abdullah have, for decades, worked diligently to improve the infrastructure and facilities at the Hazratbal Shrine — all without seeking personal credit or recognition,” the NC leaders said. “The money spent at Hazratbal Shrine is the contribution of devotees who offer it with utmost love and reverence. Any attempt to politicise or personalise this sacred place must be condemned and legally dealt with.”
The leaders reiterated their unwavering respect for the religious sentiments of the people and called upon the administration to ensure transparency, sensitivity, and accountability in the functioning of religious institutions.
Furthermore, the meeting unanimously demanded the immediate release and acquittal of all detainees and youth who, they said, have been subjected to harsh and unjustified action. They urged the government to adopt a reconciliatory and humane approach, especially in the present socio-political context.
The NC leaders reaffirmed their commitment to safeguarding the democratic and civil rights of the people and pledged to continue advocating for peace, justice, and inclusive development in Jammu and Kashmir.
