National Conference vice-president Omar Abdullah on Saturday said if the party comes to power, it will give priority to removing AFSPA from Jammu and Kashmir and end the “unjust oppression of Kashmiri youth”.
Abdullah had advocated the removal of the controversial Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA) when he was the chief minister of the then Jammu and Kashmir state in 2012. He had also announced that the AFSPA would be repealed during his tenure, but the proposal was strongly opposed by the army.
Welcoming prominent political activists into the party fold, Abdullah said, “The party (National Conference) reiterates its unwavering commitment to fulfil the promises outlined in its manifesto. Once voted to power, the National Conference-led government will give priority to the repeal of AFSPA, thereby putting an end to the unjust oppression of our youth.”
The National Conference leader said his party was committed to streamlining the passport verification process, creating employment opportunities for the unemployed and ensuring that every household got access to essential resources, enhanced rations and reliable utility services without burdening their finances. Highlighting the significance of the party’s manifesto, Abdullah said it truly reflected the aspirations of the people of Jammu and Kashmir.
He said, “This is why the BJP has rejected it,” and warned that “every vote cast in favour of parties other than the National Conference and its allies will serve to strengthen the BJP, no matter which party is elected”. Abdullah, who is contesting the assembly elections from the Ganderbal seat, said the National Conference is not interested in winning elections through fear tactics against the BJP.
“Instead, the party has prepared a comprehensive manifesto that addresses the concerns of artisans, unemployed youth, agriculturists, transporters, hoteliers, traders and others. The manifesto not only identifies the issues but also presents a clear roadmap to tackle them effectively,” he said.
Elections for the 90-member Jammu and Kashmir Assembly will be held in three phases on September 18, September 25 and October 1 and the results will be declared on October 8. The National Conference and the Congress have finalised the seat-sharing formula, with the parties contesting 51 and 32 seats respectively.
