SRINAGAR: Condolences poured in from across the political spectrum following the demise of senior Jammu and Kashmir National Conference leader and former minister Dr Mustafa Kamal, who passed away at Paras Hospital in Srinagar on Tuesday evening after a prolonged illness.
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah announced the passing of his paternal uncle in an emotional message on X, saying Dr Kamal had been unwell for several months but his condition deteriorated over the past four days.
“My father’s younger brother Dr Mustafa Kamal passed away earlier this evening at Paras Hospital in Srinagar. Uncle Mustafa had been unwell for some months but took a turn for the worse four days ago. He put up a brave fight holding on against the odds. The doctors and staff treating him were amazing but Allah called him for his final journey. May Allah grant Uncle Mustafa the highest place in Jannat,” Omar Abdullah wrote.
The Jammu and Kashmir National Conference also expressed profound grief over the demise of its veteran leader, describing his death as an irreparable loss to both the party and the people of Jammu and Kashmir.
In a statement, the party said Dr Kamal had devoted decades of his life to public service and to strengthening the ideals and legacy of the National Conference. It said his unwavering commitment, principled leadership and dedication to the people had earned him respect across political and social circles. The party expressed solidarity with party president Farooq Abdullah, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and the bereaved family, praying for eternal peace to the departed soul.
Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary termed Dr Kamal’s death an “irreparable loss” and said his unwavering commitment to public service and the ideals of the National Conference had earned him immense respect. He conveyed his condolences to Dr Farooq Abdullah and the bereaved family.
Minister Sakina Itoo said she was deeply saddened by the passing of Dr Mustafa Kamal and described him as a leader whose contributions to public life and commitment to the people would always be remembered. She extended her heartfelt condolences to Dr Farooq Abdullah, Omar Abdullah and the entire family, praying for strength and patience for them in this difficult time.
Democratic Progressive Azad Party chairman and former Chief Minister Ghulam Nabi Azad described Dr Kamal as a seasoned political leader who served Jammu and Kashmir with commitment and dedication over several decades. He expressed sympathies with the Abdullah family and prayed for peace to the departed soul.
Apni Party president Syed Mohammad Altaf Bukhari remembered Dr Kamal as one of the most graceful politicians and a distinguished leader whose demise was a great loss. He extended condolences to Dr Farooq Abdullah, Omar Abdullah and other members of the bereaved family, praying for courage and patience to help them bear the loss.
Dr Mustafa Kamal, a senior National Conference leader, former minister and younger brother of Dr Farooq Abdullah, passed away after battling illness for several months. His death has triggered an outpouring of tributes from political leaders across Jammu and Kashmir.
