SRINAGAR: National Conference president Farooq Abdullah on Saturday withdrew his name from possible joint opposition candidate for the office of President of India.
“I am honoured to have had my name proposed as a possible joint opposition candidate for the office of President of India by Mamata Banerjee Sahiba. Subsequent to Mamata didi proposing my name, I have received a number of calls from opposition leaders offering their support for my candidature,” said Dr Farooq Abdullah in a statement.
“I have taken a few days to discuss this unexpected development with my family and senior colleagues. I am deeply touched by the support that I’ve received & honoured to have been considered for the highest office in the country,” he said in a statement.
“I believe that Jammu and Kashmir is passing through a critical juncture and my efforts are required to help navigate these uncertain times. I have a lot more active politics ahead of me & look forward to making a positive contribution in the service of J&K and the country. Therefore I would like to respectfully withdraw my name from consideration and I look forward to supporting the joint opposition consensus candidate,” he added.
“I’m very grateful to Mamata didi for proposing my name. I’m also grateful to all the senior leaders who offered me their support,” said Dr Farooq Abdullah, President J&K National Conference in a statement.
