Excelsior Correspondent
SRINAGAR, Dec 5: Leaders of the National Conference (NC) today commemorated the founder of the party, Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah, on the occasion of his 119th birth anniversary.
NC president Dr Farooq Abdullah, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, along with other senior leaders and Omar’s sons, Zahir and Zamir, paid their respects by visiting Sheikh Abdullah’s grave at Hazratbal, where they offered Fateha Khawani in his honor.
Party leaders, functionaries, and supporters came together to celebrate the legacy of Sheikh Abdullah, who is fondly referred to as Sher-e-Kashmir.
Prominent NC leaders underscored his significant contributions to the fields of education, health, and land reforms in Jammu and Kashmir. They also advocated for the restoration of the public holiday on December 5, which was removed from the official calendar in 2020.
“We observe this day every year and uphold the tradition. However, since August 5, 2019, the public holiday has been abolished. It must be restored,” stated Altaf Kaloo, MLA from Pahalgam. Click here to watch the video
Last month, the Omar-led Government submitted a request to Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha for reinstating the holiday, which is still pending approval.
At the commemoration, Hasnain Masoodi, MLA from Pampore, highlighted Sheikh Abdullah’s dedication to achieving social justice and his efforts in ending the oppressive governance in Jammu and Kashmir. “We fought against tyranny under his guidance, and he set the groundwork for social justice. This day is recognized throughout Kashmir,” he remarked.
The Minister for Education, Health, Medical Education, and Social Welfare, Sakina Itoo, characterized Sheikh Abdullah as a monumental figure with a significant impact across the subcontinent. “He freed the residents of Jammu and Kashmir from mental oppression and restored their dignity. Today, we honor a leader who altered the trajectory of our history,” she affirmed.
She further commended Sheikh Abdullah for empowering Kashmiris to maintain their dignity and pride, emphasizing his enduring legacy as a champion of empowerment and progress.
