While urging the Centre to hold assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir soon, former Chief Minister and National Conference Vice President Omar Abdullah on Wednesday said that the government can’t bow down to forces behind the recent spate of attacks in the Jammu region. Speaking to reporters in Srinagar, Omar said if the situation is worse than what it was in 1996 and the government bows down to the adversaries, proving the supremacy of militancy over security forces, then don’t hold Assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir. If the current security situation is worse than 1996 then do not go for assembly election in Jammu and Kashmir. If you have to bow down before such forces and prove supremacy of militants over security forces, then do not hold Assembly elections in J&K,” Omar said. He questioned, “If there is supremacy of security forces (Army, J&K Police and other agencies) then the elections should be held”. Omar, who recently lost Lok Sabha elections from north Kashmir’s Baramulla segment against his rival and independent candidate Er Rashid, remarked that elections for Jammu & Kashmir Assembly should be held on time. He also said that people of J&K should be allowed to choose their elected government. Paying floral tributes to Madar-e-Maharban Begum Akbar Jehan on her 24th death anniversary at Naseem Bagh Srinagar, Omar recalled the most crucial and pioneering role she played during the political movement launched by Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah. Begum Akbar Jehan has played a crucial role in shaping the future of women folk of Jammu and Kashmir. She has done tremendous efforts in her times, and I believe there is a need to do more for the community. Our party (National Conference) will give priority in its manifesto to include a scheme/package for women during forthcoming Assembly elections,” Omar added.
