SRINAGAR: National Conference Vice President Omar Abdullah, who is poised to become the next Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, visited Bakshi Stadium in Srinagar on Saturday, where an ongoing Legends League Cricket match has drawn significant crowds.
His visit comes just days before his anticipated oath-taking ceremony as the new Chief Minister.
The atmosphere at the stadium was lively, with passionate cricket fans filling the stands, reflecting the growing enthusiasm for the sport in Jammu and Kashmir.
Addressing the media during his visit, Abdullah shared his excitement and vision for the future of cricket in the region.
“It is great to see this kind of cricket in Srinagar, and the people are coming out with so much enthusiasm,” Abdullah said.
“We have been waiting for such opportunities, and I am hopeful that our youth will soon be playing at this level of cricket in Jammu and Kashmir.”
Highlighting the need for developing robust sporting infrastructure, Abdullah emphasised the importance of preparing the region to host high-profile matches in the future.
“Just like the IPL and other major cricket matches, we have to create world-class infrastructure for the sport here. We will work on that, and once ready, we will request the BCCI to bring such matches to Jammu and Kashmir,” he said.
In a light-hearted moment, Abdullah drew a parallel between the unpredictability of cricket and politics, saying, “One has to win or lose, just like in elections. But the key is participation and ensuring that you’re well-prepared for both outcomes.”
Turning to political developments in the region, Abdullah provided insight into the remaining procedural steps before he assumes office.
Reflecting on past governance challenges, he humorously recalled an incident involving a malfunctioning fax machine that delayed government formation. “We once tried to use a fax machine for government formation, but it didn’t work.”
Abdullah also spoke about the conclusion of President’s Rule, which has been in place for six years. “There’s a procedure in place to end this. A cabinet note has to be prepared, which will then go to Rashtrapati Bhavan and the Home Ministry. I believe by Monday it will be completed. Tuesday, we will finalise preparations, and on Wednesday, we will take the oath.” (KINS)
