Srinagar 25 Sep(KNB): Omar Abdullah, National Conference vice president, slammed the government for inviting foreign delegates to observe the Jammu and Kashmir assembly elections, calling it an internal matter for India. Abdullah questioned the need for foreign observers, citing the government’s usual stance that elections are an internal affair.
Abdullah’s remarks came as a delegation of 16 diplomats from New Delhi-based missions arrived in Srinagar to observe the polls. The elections, being held after a decade, are also the first since the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019. Abdullah expressed hope for a good turnout in the second phase, citing enthusiasm in political rallies.
When asked about the importance of the second phase, Abdullah emphasized that all election days are crucial for the party. He’s contesting from Ganderbal and Budgam seats. On allegations of bogus voting by PDP president Mehbooba Mufti, Abdullah suggested investigating the claims, attributing PDP’s concerns to their candidates’ lack of impact.
Regarding Congress leader Rahul Gandhi’s visit to J-K, Abdullah urged the Congress to focus on Jammu, where the party’s campaign has yet to begin. Abdullah expressed disappointment that the Congress hasn’t done enough in Jammu, despite being part of a pre-poll alliance with the NC.
The elections have generated significant interest, with Omar Abdullah contesting from Ganderbal, a seat that has elected three generations of his family. The outcome will be crucial for the region’s future.