SRINAGAR: Former National Conference leader and former Food Minister Qamar Ali Akhoon, a veteran political figure from Kargil, passed away on Friday, drawing widespread grief across Jammu and Kashmir’s political landscape.
The Speaker of the Legislative Assembly, Abdul Rahim Rather, informed the House about the demise of the senior leader, stating that Akhoon had devoted decades of his life to public service and democratic politics.
Hailing from Sangra village in Kargil, Akhoon was known for his extensive political experience and strong representation of Kargil and the wider Ladakh region. During his career, he served as a Cabinet Minister, Advisor to the Chief Minister, and the first Chief Executive Councillor of the Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council (LAHDC), Kargil. He also held key portfolios, including Transport and Consumer Affairs and Public Distribution, and was appointed Additional General Secretary of the Jammu and Kashmir National Conference (JKNC).
Akhoon served as a Minister for six years and began his political journey at the grassroots level, where he was elected unopposed as a councillor. He was re-elected as an MLA in the 2008 Assembly elections and later served as a Minister in the Omar Abdullah-led government, representing the aspirations of the Ladakh region in the Cabinet.
Following the announcement, members of the House expressed deep sorrow and paid tribute to his decades-long contribution to public life. Legislators across party lines acknowledged his role in promoting public welfare and voicing the concerns of people living in remote and high-altitude areas. Several members described him as a dedicated leader who remained accessible to the public and worked to strengthen democratic institutions in the region.
The Assembly observed silence as a mark of respect and extended condolences to the bereaved family, praying for eternal peace to the departed soul.
