Jammu and Kashmir National Conference (JKNC) President Farooq Abdullah and Vice President Omar Abdullah displayed their inked fingers after casting their votes in the second phase of the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly elections.
On September 25, 2024, Omar Abdullah expressed his discontent with the Centre’s decision to invite foreign diplomats to observe the ongoing Assembly elections, asserting that the polls are an internal affair for India and stating, “We do not need their certificate.”
During a press conference, Abdullah questioned why foreign observers were necessary, especially when the Indian government often emphasizes that such matters are internal. He described the invitation as a “guided tour,” suggesting it was an attempt by the Centre to take undue credit for the public’s participation in the elections, which he viewed as a betrayal of the local populace.
Voting took place for 26 seats across six districts, with a delegation of 16 diplomats visiting at the invitation of the Ministry of External Affairs to monitor the election process.
Abdullah remarked that the Assembly elections in J&K are “an internal matter for us,” insisting that the participation observed was not due to the government’s efforts but despite the government’s previous actions. He highlighted how the government has historically detained and harassed citizens, yet they still showed up to vote.
He further challenged the inconsistency in the government’s stance on foreign involvement, asking why foreign journalists were barred from covering the elections while diplomats were given special access.
The Assembly polls mark the first in a decade and the first since the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019. Abdullah expressed optimism for voter turnout in the second phase, emphasizing that the enthusiasm seen in political rallies should translate into votes.
As he campaigned for two seats in Ganderbal and Budgam, Abdullah stressed that all election days are significant, not just for him personally but for the party as a whole. He conveyed a sense of hope, stating, “Hope is what keeps the world moving.”
Responding to allegations from PDP President Mehbooba Mufti about bogus voting in Ganderbal and Budgam, Abdullah noted that the PDP seems to be realizing their declining support. He remarked on the internal strife within the PDP and their loss of influence in the face of shifting political alliances.
Regarding Rahul Gandhi’s visit to J&K, Abdullah commented that while it is beneficial for the Congress leader to campaign in Kashmir, he hopes the Congress will focus more on Jammu, highlighting the party’s lack of engagement in that region compared to the National Conference’s efforts. Gandhi is scheduled to address a rally in Sopore later that day.
