In a recent public rally in Jammu, DPAP chairman Ghulam Nabi Azad challenged NC president Dr. Farooq Abdullah and his son, Omar Abdullah, to transcend the legacy of former chief minister Sheikh Abdullah. Azad, a former Congress leader, took aim at Omar Abdullah’s tenure as chief minister, highlighting the support provided by “his MLAs” during his six-year term.
Omar Abdullah, who led the coalition government of Congress and National Conference (NC) from 2009 to 2015, faced criticism from Azad for what he termed a lack of gratitude. Azad emphasized that Omar Abdullah’s tenure was sustained by the support of his own MLAs and the coalition alliance, rather than any personal favors.
Azad’s remarks come amidst a campaign trail in Ramban district, supporting his party candidate G M Saroori in the Udhampur Lok Sabha constituency. This constituency witnesses a three-way battle between Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh of the BJP, Choudhary Lal Singh of the Congress, and Saroori.
Highlighting his own role in bringing Farooq Abdullah back to Jammu and Kashmir during a period of turmoil, Azad criticized the current political landscape, accusing the NC of clinging to the legacy of Sheikh Abdullah without enduring similar hardships. Azad questioned their ability to face challenges independently, contrasting their political stance with Sheikh Abdullah’s experiences.
Azad’s assertions reflect a broader debate within Jammu and Kashmir politics, challenging traditional narratives and questioning the leadership’s capacity to navigate contemporary challenges. As the political landscape evolves, Azad’s critique underscores the need for a nuanced understanding of historical legacies and their relevance in contemporary governance.
