Farooq Abdullah to Lead NC in Jammu and Kashmir Assembly Elections

National Conference chief Farooq Abdullah has announced his leadership for the upcoming Jammu and Kashmir assembly elections, scheduled in three phases from September 18. His son, Omar Abdullah, will refrain from participating until statehood is restored. Farooq calls for a fair playing field and expresses optimism for voter turnout.

On Friday, National Conference (NC) chief Farooq Abdullah declared that he would lead the party in the forthcoming Jammu and Kashmir assembly elections, set to occur in three phases beginning September 18.

He confirmed to PTI his intention to contest the elections, while his son Omar Abdullah has decided to abstain from participating until the restoration of statehood to Jammu and Kashmir.

The region was reorganized as a Union Territory following the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019. Welcoming the Election Commission's decision to advance the elections, Farooq Abdullah expressed gratitude and hope for the end of central rule in the Union Territory.

The elections are scheduled for September 18, September 25, and October 1, with results to be declared on October 4.

Farooq Abdullah emphasized the NC's readiness for the assembly polls and voiced optimism for high voter turnout. He also called for a level playing field for all political parties, accusing the ruling BJP of holding disproportionate advantages.

On whether NC would contest independently, he stated that thorough discussions within the party will precede any final decision. He also urged citizens to prepare for upcoming local elections.

Farooq Abdullah criticized the downgrading of Jammu and Kashmir to a Union Territory and challenged the BJP's leadership, asserting the situation has improved since the 1990s. He responded skeptically to BJP's claims about forming the government, emphasizing the importance of fair elections.