NVI Correspondent
Srinagar, Dec 30 (NVI): A political row has erupted in Jammu and Kashmir after the Lieutenant Governor’s administration omitted Sheikh Muhammad Abdullah’s birth anniversary from the list of official holidays for 2024.
Sheikh Abdullah, often referred to as the “Lion of Kashmir,” is a towering figure in the region’s history and the founder of the Jammu and Kashmir National Conference (NC). His exclusion from the list has sparked sharp criticism from political parties, civil society groups, and residents alike.
The omission was first noticed when the administration released the holiday calendar for the upcoming year, which included traditional and national holidays but left out December 5, Sheikh Abdullah’s birth anniversary. For decades, the date has been marked as an official holiday to honor his contributions to Jammu and Kashmir, particularly his role in shaping its modern political landscape.
The National Conference (NC), led by Sheikh Abdullah’s grandson and former Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, condemned the decision, terming it a deliberate attempt to undermine the legacy of the region’s first Prime Minister. “Sheikh Sahib’s contribution to Jammu and Kashmir’s political, social, and economic framework is unparalleled. This omission is an insult to his legacy and the people of J&K,” Omar Abdullah said in a statement.
The People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and Congress also joined in the criticism, accusing the administration of erasing the region’s historical and cultural identity. PDP president Mehbooba Mufti tweeted, “Sheikh Sahib is not just a person; he is an institution. Erasing his name from the calendar does not erase his legacy.”
The controversy has also sparked outrage among the public, with many questioning the LG administration’s motives. “Sheikh Abdullah played a crucial role in securing land reforms and advocating for the rights of the people of J&K. This is not just about a holiday; it is about respect for our history,” said Abdul Rashid, a retired professor from Srinagar.
The administration has yet to issue a statement explaining the decision, but officials hinted at a broader policy of reducing the number of regional holidays. However, critics argue that this policy appears selective, given the inclusion of other region-specific holidays.
This controversy comes at a time when the political environment in Jammu and Kashmir remains charged. With the demand for restoration of statehood and elections intensifying, the exclusion of Sheikh Abdullah’s anniversary is being seen by many as an attempt to rewrite the region’s historical narrative.
Observers say the move could deepen the divide between the administration and local political parties, further complicating efforts to rebuild trust in the region. Whether the decision will be reversed remains to be seen, but for now, it has reignited debates over identity, legacy, and the political future of Jammu and Kashmir.(News Vibes of India)
