Srinagar, Oct 16: Several political leaders congratulated National Conference vice president Omar Abdullah after he was sworn in as the Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir Union Territory on Wednesday.
Congratulating Omar, People’s Conference (PC) chairman and MLA, Handwara, Sajad Lone described it as a momentous day for the people of Jammu and Kashmir, saying that after more than five years, popular rule is being restored.
“It is a momentous day for the people of J and K. After more than five years, popular rule is being restored,” he said. “We need to remember though that the last assembly was the most empowered assembly in the country. And today it is probably among the most disempowered.”
Lone added, “Let us hope we reclaim and retrieve whatever we were robbed of on August 5, 2019, and what rightfully belongs to us. “My best wishes and congratulations to Jammu and Kashmir National Conference and Omar Abdullah,” he said.
Jammu and Kashmir Apni Party congratulated Omar Abdullah on his oath as J&K CM. The party’s general secretary Rafi Ahmad Mir, on behalf of the Apni Party, remarked, “This significant role comes with immense responsibilities, and we are hopeful that he will honour the mandate of the people.”
“We trust that the Lieutenant Governor will facilitate a smooth transition of power and provide the necessary support for the effective implementation of the elected government’s decisions. A collaborative approach between the elected government and the administration is essential for ensuring stability and progress in the region,” he said.
Mir said the Apni Party emphasises the importance of unity among political stakeholders to address the pressing challenges facing Jammu and Kashmir. “We are committed to fostering an environment of cooperation, dialogue, and constructive engagement for the benefit of the people of J&K,” he added.
Hakeem Muhammad Yaseen, Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Front (PDF), extending his best wishes to Omar Abdullah, expressed hope that the new government would fulfill all promises made to the people in its election manifesto.
In a statement issued here, Yaseen said the restoration of democracy and the ability for people to elect their representatives after a decade-long wait is a significant achievement. “Following the decisive mandate received by the National Conference-Congress alliance, it is their duty to honour the commitments made during the election campaigns,” he said.
The former minister said the people of Jammu and Kashmir voted for a secular and stable government to guard against divisive and communal forces. “The mandate reflects the public’s desire to protect their constitutional, legal, social and political rights,” he said.
The PDF Chairman said the citizens of Jammu and Kashmir have high expectations from Omar’s government, particularly regarding the restoration of their constitutional rights that were unilaterally taken away following the decisions made post-August 5, 2019. “There is an urgent need for the restoration of statehood, protection of land rights and a focus on peace and development, particularly in addressing the ongoing power crisis and rising unemployment issues,” he added.
