SRINAGAR: Rolling out its poll manifesto, National Conference Vice-President Omar Abdullah on Monday said that his party would fight for the restoration of Jammu and Kashmir’s political and legal status, while also promising 200 units of free electricity if the party is voted to power.
Addressing a press conference in Srinagar, Omar Abdullah, unveiled the party’s 2024 poll manifesto. He said that if the NC is voted into power, it will prioritise the restoration of Jammu and Kashmir’s political and legal status. “We also promise 200 units of free power to the people of J&K if voted to power,” he said.
He emphasised that the party would advocate for the rights of the people and would remind the Supreme Court of the Government of India’s promise to restore statehood to Jammu and Kashmir. “If the Government of India delays this, we will approach the Supreme Court and remind them of the Centre’s promise,” he added.
Further elaborating on the manifesto, Omar Abdullah said the party aims to strengthen the public distribution system, ensuring that people have access to sugar and kerosene from ration depots. “We also promise to seek the release of all political prisoners who aren’t involved in heinous crimes,” he said.
In response to a question, Omar expressed disappointment that Jamaat-e-Islami would not contest the polls openly. He also appealed for public support, “I hope the people of J&K will give NC a chance to serve them for the next five years.” Jammu and Kashmir will go to the polls in three phases starting on September 18, with the counting of votes scheduled for October 4—KNO.