NC pays tribute to Sheikh Abdullah on death anniversary

Srinagar, Sep 7: The Jammu & Kashmir National Conference rank and file offer glowing tributes to party founder Sher e Kashmir Sheikh Muhammad Abdullah on his 43rd death anniversary, said a party statement.

The party hailed him as a man of iron will and unwavering dedication to the people of Jammu, Kashmir, and Ladakh, it said.  A central commemorative event is set to take place at his mausoleum in Naseem Bagh, Hazratbal. The day will begin with Quran Khawani, floral tributes, and Fatiha Khawani, led by party president Dr. Farooq Abdullah and vice president and honourable Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, alongside senior party functionaries. Similar tributes will be paid at Sher-i-Kashmir Bhawan in Jammu and other district headquarters across J&K and Ladakh.

Describing Sher-e-Kashmir as a towering figure in the history of Jammu and Kashmir, the National Conference rank and file said he transformed the region from a feudal, colonial society into a progressive, democratic, and secular one.

The party leaders referred to him as a political colossus and a father figure whose legacy still defines the region’s aspirations.

An ardent champion of socialism and democracy, Sher-e-Kashmir’s vision was captured in the 'Naya Kashmir' manifesto. This progressive charter promised freedom of the press, freedom of assembly, and the upliftment of the poor, regardless of caste, creed, religion, or region. His policies aimed to dismantle feudal structures through the abolition of landlordism and redistribution of land to the tillers.

The party noted that Sheikh sahib’s inclusive politics and deep commitment to pluralism earned him respect far beyond Jammu and Kashmir. He symbolised the collective voice of the Jammu and Kashmir people like no other leader of his time, and his name became synonymous across India with humanism, secularism, and social justice.