SRINAGAR: The Jammu and Kashmir National Conference has selected Omar Abdullah as the leader of its Legislature Party, making him the party’s candidate for Chief Minister. This decision was finalized during a key meeting chaired by NC President Dr Farooq Abdullah on Thursday.
Omar Abdullah is now set to receive a letter of endorsement from Congress and will soon approach Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha to claim the formation of the government with the backing of 49 legislators, including four Independent MLAs from Jammu who have extended their support to the NC.
While talking to the media, JKNC Vice President Omar Abdullah said, “Today in the meeting of the National Conference Legislature Party, I have been elected as the leader of the Legislature Party. I express my gratitude to the MLAs. Talks are going on to get the letter of support from the Congress. 4 independent MLAs have also extended their support to the National Conference. Now the number of the National Conference is 42 plus 4 independent MLAs. After receiving the letter from Congress, we will go to the Raj Bhavan to stake claim to form the government.”
Speaking after the extended meeting held at the NC headquarters, Nawa-e-Subh complex, Dr Farooq confirmed Omar’s selection as chairman of the Legislature Party but refrained from providing further details due to the large media presence.
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According to NC insiders, the selection of Omar as LP chairman solidifies his role as the Chief Ministerial candidate. He will officially meet the Lieutenant Governor within the next two days to stake his claim for leading the government.
A party leader, speaking with The New Indian, confirmed that the NC-Congress alliance is prepared to finalize its claim for government formation by Saturday, pending Congress’ formal approval in their upcoming meeting.
During the meeting, all newly elected members reaffirmed their commitment to unity and pledged to work diligently for the public’s welfare, honouring the trust placed in them by the voters in the recent elections.