SRINAGAR: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Monday paid tribute to former Governor Satya Pal Malik, former legislator and minister GM Shaheen and other departed public figures during obituary references on the opening day of the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly’s Autumn Session.
Omar also raised concern over an administrative lapse, saying the concerned district administration had failed to inform the Assembly Secretariat about the death of former legislator Mohammad Sultan Pandithpori.
The Chief Minister said the departed leaders had contributed to public welfare in their respective capacities and urged members to reflect on their public service.
Referring to the conduct of obituary references, Omar suggested that the Assembly consider adopting a shorter format similar to that followed in Parliament. He said lengthy speeches could sometimes become political and that the occasion should primarily be used to pay respects to those who had died.
The Chief Minister referred to Malik’s long public career, noting that he had served as an MLA, minister and Governor in different states.
Paying tribute to Shaheen, Omar described him as a courageous leader who continued his public service after surviving a major landmine blast.
On the death of Pandithpori, Omar questioned why the Assembly Secretariat had not been informed by the concerned district administration.
He said the lapse had already been taken note of and that an explanation should be sought from the officials concerned. Omar also said he expected the Chief Secretary to have taken action on the matter.
