In a decisive victory, Omar Abdullah led the National Conference (NC) and Congress alliance to a sweeping triumph in the Jammu & Kashmir Assembly elections. The alliance secured a commanding majority, claiming 48 seats out of the 90-member assembly, marking a significant political shift in the region.
Speaking to India Today, Omar Abdullah shared his experience on counting day, revealing a unique ritual that seemed to bring him good fortune. He recounted how he went for a run on the day of the results, despite losing the previous time he had done so. This time, however, his run was followed by a victory, leading him to declare, “If I don’t run, I need to put this jinx away. So I went for a run and I still won, so now I will just keep running when I have to.”
Looking ahead, Omar Abdullah acknowledged the significant responsibility that comes with leading the new government. “The government which is formed in the coming days has a very big responsibility of ensuring that the people of Jammu do not feel that this is not their government. Whoever becomes the CM of J&K will have to ensure that people of Jammu feel a sense of belonging,” he said, as quoted by ANI. He also underscored the need to foster a strong relationship with the central government to address the challenges facing the valley. “It is the responsibility of the NC- CPM- Congress alliance to stand up to the expectations of the people and work for their welfare. It has now become essential for us to build relations with the Centre so that we can solve the problems of J&K. National Conference has got more votes and our responsibility has increased,” he added.
As the dust settles on the election results, Omar Abdullah is poised to become the next Chief Minister of Jammu & Kashmir. Confirming his position, former Jammu & Kashmir Chief Minister and NC supremo Farooq Abdullah said, “The people have given their mandate; they have shown they reject the decision taken on August 5 (revoking the special status of J&K). Omar Abdullah will be the Chief Minister.”
Notably, the BJP also performed strongly, winning 29 seats. Former Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti’s PDP secured three seats, while Sajad Gani Lone’s People’s Conference and Aam Aadmi Party won one seat each. CPI(M) also won one seat, and Independents captured seven seats.
