SRINAGAR: The Jammu and Kashmir National Conference (NC) on Monday paid glowing tributes to party founder and former Jammu and Kashmir prime minister Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah on his 44th death anniversary, describing him as the architect of modern Jammu and Kashmir.
In a joint statement, senior NC leaders remembered Sheikh Abdullah as a farsighted and visionary leader who, they said, confronted the challenges of his time with wisdom and determination.
The leaders recalled the massive public participation in Sheikh Abdullah’s funeral procession 44 years ago, saying the outpouring of grief reflected the bond he shared with the people of Jammu and Kashmir.
They said Sheikh Abdullah was a popular and fearless leader who fought against oppression and injustice and worked for the political and social empowerment of the people.
According to the leaders, his struggle was not limited to any particular section or interest but was aimed at challenging hereditary rule and dismantling the feudal and autocratic system.
They said Sheikh Abdullah played a historic role in ending the feudal order and ushering in an era of political empowerment and social justice in Jammu and Kashmir.
The leaders said the people of Jammu and Kashmir would remain indebted to Sheikh Abdullah for generations for giving them a voice and securing democratic and political rights.
Those who paid tributes included NC General Secretary Haji Ali Mohammad Sagar, Assembly Speaker Abdul Rahim Rather, Additional General Secretaries Choudhary Mohammad Ramzan and Ajay Kumar Sadhotra, Treasurer and Rajya Sabha member Shammi Oberoi, Chief Minister’s Advisor Nasir Aslam Wani, Chief Spokesperson Tanvir Sadiq, Provincial Presidents Showkat Ahmad Mir and Rattan Lal Gupta, MPs Mian Altaf Ahmad, Haji Hanifa Jan and Sajjad Kitchloo, besides several senior party leaders, ministers, legislators and office-bearers of the Youth and Women’s Wings.
The party said the 44th death anniversary of Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah will be observed on September 8 at his mausoleum in Naseem Bagh.
Quran Khwani, floral tributes and a commemorative gathering will be held on the occasion, with the collective Fateh Khwani scheduled for 10 am.
