Srinagar, June 10: National Conference (NC) Vice President Omar Abdullah today said that he will not contest the coming assembly polls in Jammu and Kashmir.
In an interview with national news agency, PTI, he however said that he would lead NC’s campaign in the polls. Omar had unsuccessfully contested the Lok Sabha polls from Baramulla recently. He was defeated by Awami Itihad Party (AIP) leader Er Abdul Rashid.
Omar Abdullah stated that he will not humiliate himself by entering the legislature of a Union Territory (UT). About his defeat the NC leader said in elections a political leader has to be ready for a loss as well.
The former Chief Minister stated that while he lost, on the whole NC has a lot to be satisfied for. “As far as my own seat is concerned, how can I be anything but disappointed. But that is electoral politics for you. If you are not prepared to lose, you should not file your papers. I cannot say the result was on expected lines. But it is what it is,” he said
Omar added that he will fight for restoration of statehood to J&K. “I will fight for a full state of J&K with no dilution. Then, if possible, I will seek an opportunity to enter the assembly and play my part there. But, I will not humiliate myself by entering a UT (assembly),” he said.
To a question that if he was hopeful for early restoration of statehood to J&K as the BJP did not get a majority on its own in the recently concluded Lok Sabha polls, the NC leader said the Prime Minister and the Home Minister of the country have made a commitment to this effect both inside and outside Parliament.