Srinagar 14 Nov(KNB): Chief Minister Omar Abdullah commented on NC leader Aga Ruhullah’s decision to withdraw from the Budgam by-poll campaign, stating that Ruhullah “killed himself politically” in an attempt to send a message to the party.
Speaking to reporters on Friday, Omar used the idiom “you cut your nose to spite your face” to describe the move, suggesting that Ruhullah’s action hurt his own political standing more than it achieved his intended goal.
Omar asserted, “Ruhullah killed himself to give me a message,” but noted the withdrawal ultimately backfired.
He stressed that the winning candidate in Budgam would likely prevent Ruhullah’s political revival, making his future dependent on his ability to rebuild his base. “Only Ruhullah can decide if he will be able to rise again in Budgam or not,” he added.
Omar admitted the National Conference (NC) anticipated a tough contest from the start, recognizing that voting patterns in Budgam are complex. “In Budgam, people do not vote only based on work… Many voters make their choice quietly, behind the curtain,” he explained.
He concluded by acknowledging that the result was influenced by various factors, including silent voters and shifting political sentiments, and stated, “We accept the verdict and move forward.”(KNB)