In response to recent remarks made by Union Home Minister Amit Shah, National Conference vice-president Omar Abdullah has vehemently defended his party, emphasizing that the NC has suffered the most from the prevalent gun culture in Jammu and Kashmir. Abdullah made these statements during the nomination filing of Mian Altaf, the NC candidate for the Anantnag-Rajouri Lok Sabha seat.
Shah had accused the NC, PDP, and Congress of introducing the gun culture in the region. However, Abdullah challenged this narrative, stating that the origins of the gun culture are well known, and it has inflicted immense suffering on the National Conference. He highlighted the toll it has taken on the party, with over 3,000 senior workers, party cadres, office bearers, ex-legislators, and senior leaders falling victim to this culture of violence.
Abdullah urged Shah to acknowledge the sacrifices made by NC members and supporters and include them in any discussion on the consequences of the gun culture. He underscored the importance of recognizing the losses incurred by the party due to the prevailing situation in Jammu and Kashmir.
Expressing optimism about the upcoming elections, Abdullah voiced his confidence in Mian Altaf’s candidacy for the Anantnag-Rajouri Lok Sabha seat. He expressed gratitude towards GA Mir, a Congress leader who traveled from Delhi to attend the nomination filing process, demonstrating cross-party support for the NC candidate.
Abdullah’s remarks serve to highlight the complex political landscape of Jammu and Kashmir, where accusations and counter-accusations regarding the origins and consequences of the region’s historical challenges are not uncommon. As election season unfolds, the rhetoric from various political parties is likely to intensify, reflecting the deep-seated divisions and aspirations within the Union Territory.
