Ganderbal, Sep 04: Former Chief Minister of Jammu & Kashmir, Omar Abdullah on Wednesday made a heartfelt plea to voters in Ganderbal constituency following the submission of his nomination papers.
In a video that quickly went viral, Abdullah, visibly emotional, emphasised the personal stakes of his campaign by stating, “My turban and my honour are in your hands.”
The video captured a dramatic moment when Omar removed his skull cap—a symbol of faith and dignity—as part of his appeal. He requested support and respect from his party workers and constituents
His supporters, visibly moved, urged him to put it back on, reflecting their respect and affection for him. This act was intended to convey the deep personal significance of their backing in this pivotal phase of his political career.
The emotional appeal has sparked a flurry of reactions on social media. While some praised Abdullah’s sincerity and humility, others viewed the gesture as a calculated political move.
Omar Abdullah is contesting the Ganderbal constituency, a seat he previously lost in 2002 to late PDP candidate Qazi Afzal. He also faced defeat in the 2014 elections from Sonawar Assembly segment against PDP’s Muhammad Ashraf Mir, though he later won the Beerwah seat against PDP’s Nazir Khan.