Kangan, Apr 13: National Conference (NC) candidate for the Anantnag-Rajouri parliamentary seat, Mian Altaf Saturday said that he was recovering and feeling better and that he would contest the upcoming election.
The senior NC leader said that his health had improved and that he would contest the polls.
Altaf, who has been a five-time legislator from Kangan constituency in central Kashmir’s Ganderbal district, has not been in good health for the past few days.
In a video message released shortly after news reports surfaced about his unavailability for election campaigning due to health reasons, Altaf assured supporters that his health had improved and he was ready to participate in the electoral process.
He attributed his recent absence from the campaign trail to a viral infection, for which he received medical treatment.
“I was having a viral infection and doctors had advised me to take rest. However, after the treatment, my health is better. I would need to take rest for the next two days more,” Altaf said. “I was unwell for the past few days. Initially, the doctors said that it might be a case of jaundice. However, then it was detected to be a case of mild fever. I have recovered a lot during the last few days.”
His declaration comes on the heels of a visit from National Conference (NC) Vice President Omar Abdullah at his residence in Baba Nagri, Wangath in Kangan.
Omar Abdullah drove to Baba Nagri, Wangath, in Kangan soon after a party function at Srinagar to meet Altaf and inquire about his health and well-being.
Altaf is a highly respected tribal leader besides a spiritual leader of the community.
He enjoys significant support among Gujjars in Kashmir and Pir Panjal.
Apart from the tribal community’s support, Altaf also has a significant following.
Earlier this month, NC had announced Altaf as their candidate for the Anantnag-Rajouri seat, which would go to polls on May 7 in the third phase of Lok Sabha elections.
Earlier, while announcing Altaf as the candidate for the constituency at a news conference, NC Vice President Omar Abdullah had emphasised Altaf’s widespread popularity across various segments of society and expressed confidence that he would garner substantial support.
PDP has fielded party president Mehbooba Mufti from the seat while the BJP is yet to announce a candidate.