SRINAGAR: Dr Farooq Abdullah has stepped down as president of the Jammu and Kashmir National Conference (JKNC).
A party spokesman confirmed the decision. “Dr Farooq Abdullah Sahib has informed his colleagues of his decision to step down as president of JKNC. In spite of the best efforts of senior colleagues in the party Dr Sahib was adamant that he wouldn’t review his decision,” the spokesman said.
“In light of this sudden announcement which has caught everyone by surprise the party General Secretary, as per the party constitution, has been tasked with conducting the election for party president which will be completed on 5th Dec. Until that time Dr Sahib continues as President of the party.”
Dr Abdullah took over the leadership of his party after ahead of his father Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah’s demise. He, owever, have the party leadership to his son, Omar Abdullah, between 2004 and 2009 and later returned to lead it again. The five-time Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, Dr Abdullah is currently a member of the Lok Sabha from Srinagar.
The decision of stepping down is being seen as a major political happening, the reasons for which are not immediately available. He also heads the PAGD. It remains to be seen if he will give up that position as well.
Dr Abdullah told reporters that he continues to be the party president nd the party will go for elections that will choose a new leader.
