In a significant clarification, Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah stated on Monday that the Congress party's focus on "vote chori" (vote theft) and the Election Commission's special intensive revision are its exclusive agenda items and do not represent the collective stance of the opposition INDIA alliance.
Autonomy of Political Parties Within Alliance
Omar Abdullah, who is also the vice president of the National Conference, emphasized the autonomy of each political party within the opposition coalition. He explained that every constituent has the freedom to set its own priorities and campaign issues.
"Every political party has the autonomy to set its agenda. Congress has chosen SIR and 'vote chori' as its main issues. It is Congress's choice," the Chief Minister said. He added that it was not for other alliance partners to dictate the Congress's strategy, stating, "Who are we to tell them not to do it? We will choose our issues, and they will choose theirs."
On Pahalgam Attack and Employee Terminations
When asked about the National Investigation Agency's (NIA) charge sheet related to the April 22 Pahalgam terrorist attack, which was filed nearly eight months after the incident, Omar Abdullah declined to comment on its merits. He stressed the importance of the judicial process in such matters.
"Now the decision will be taken by the court. I have always maintained that we should let the courts decide," he remarked. He echoed a similar position regarding the recent termination of government employees in Jammu and Kashmir, advocating for the courts to determine guilt or innocence.
Condemning Terrorism, Praising Civilian Bravery
Reacting to a recent terrorist attack in Australia, the Chief Minister strongly condemned the violence, asserting that no religion sanctions the killing of innocent people. He specifically praised the heroic actions of a civilian who confronted the attacker.
"I salute that brave man who did not care about his own life. I was watching the video myself and saw how he pounced on the attacker and snatched the gun. I don't know how many lives he saved," Omar Abdullah said, describing the incident as deeply regrettable.
Tourism Revival Hinges on Snowfall
Shifting focus to the local economy, the CM highlighted the critical role of snowfall in reviving Kashmir's vital tourism sector. He pointed out that a significant number of tourists wait for snow in key destinations before planning their visits.
"A large section of tourists will not come to Kashmir till we get snow in Gulmarg, Pahalgam and Sonamarg," he observed. To provide a boost, he announced that Srinagar is set to host the annual convention of the Adventure Tour Operators Association of India in the coming days, an event expected to promote the region's adventure tourism potential.
