SRINAGAR: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Saturday said that while the National Conference (NC) had made a full attempt to secure all four Rajya Sabha seats from Jammu Kashmir, the final 3-1 result reflected both success and disappointment at the last stage of polling.
Speaking to media persons, Omar said, “There should be no doubt about the 3-1 outcome. We made every possible effort for a 4-0 victory, but as I had mentioned yesterday, in the final stage we were let down from certain quarters.”
He added, “It has now become fairly clear who supported us and who chose otherwise, though I don’t find it appropriate to name anyone here. It is indeed unfortunate, but I am grateful to all those who stood with us till the end. As for those who withdrew their support at the last moment, it is disappointing.”
He added that those who have been in their meetings, enjoying their food, should have openly come up with their decision to support the BJP. “Like MLA Handwara, who opted to abstain as he didn’t want to harm BJP, these members too should have openly supported BJP,” Omar said.
Omar, however, expressed satisfaction that none of the National Conference votes were cross-voted or wasted, saying, “I take comfort in the fact that not a single NC vote went astray.”
The remarks came a day after the Rajya Sabha election results, in which the National Conference won three of the four seats, while the BJP managed to secure one after a closely fought contest.
He also said that people had a misconception that flowers don’t bloom after summer season in Kashmir.
“After meeting with officials of the Floriculture Department, we concluded that if we can begin the tourist season early by opening the Tulip Garden, we can extend the season with the Gul-e-Dawood garden. I congratulate all gardeners and officials of the department,” he said
