SRINAGAR: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Thursday paid tribute to former Governors, legislators, and ministers during obituary references held on the opening day of the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly’s Autumn Session.
In his remarks, the Chief Minister said the departed leaders had made valuable contributions to public welfare. “None of us is perfect; mistakes are inevitable, whether made knowingly or unknowingly,” he observed.
Omar Abdullah also proposed that the Assembly adopt a brief and uniform format for obituary references, similar to that followed in Parliament. “As politicians, our speeches often tend to become political. It would be more appropriate to express our respects briefly and with dignity,” he suggested.
Speaker Abdul Raheem Rather welcomed the proposal, assuring that it would be duly considered. “As we remember them today, one day we too will be remembered. Let us draw inspiration from their lives and service,” the Chief Minister remarked.
Recalling the service of the departed leaders, Omar Abdullah said they had all devoted themselves to the cause of the people—whether through public office or political work. He remembered former J&K Governor Satya Pal Malik for his long and distinguished public career, having served as MLA, minister, and Governor in several states.
Paying tribute to G. M. Shaheen, he described him as a courageous leader who continued his public service with determination even after surviving a major landmine blast.
The Chief Minister also expressed dismay over the failure of the concerned district administration to inform the Assembly Secretariat about the demise of former legislator Mohammad Sultan Pandithpori.
“You have already taken note of the lapse, and I am sure the Chief Secretary must have also acted on it. An explanation must be sought from the responsible officers,” he said.
