Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) legislator, Mir Mohammad Fayaz on Friday accused Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah of failing to live up to the massive public mandate he received in the aftermath of Article 370’s abrogation.
Speaking to the reporters in Sopore, Mir said the people of Jammu and Kashmir had placed their trust in Omar Abdullah with the hope that he would lead the fight to restore their lost rights. “The people gave you power not to plead helplessness, but to act. If even for observing Sheikh Abdullah Day, you need the Lieutenant Governor’s permission, then what exactly is the point of being in power?” he asked.
Comparing BJP’s use of its parliamentary majority to revoke Article 370 and the expectations placed on regional leaders to undo that injustice, Mir, who represents Kupwara constituency, said that the people gave Omar a strong mandate to bring it back. “Sadly, he has failed to rise to the occasion.”
Fayaz said that if reclaiming the region’s lost constitutional rights required stepping away from power, then leaders must be ready to make that sacrifice. “If resigning helps in reclaiming Article 370, do it. But don’t cover your failures by blaming circumstances. Leadership demands courage, not excuses,” he said.
Referring to Omar Abdullah’s statement that “nothing is in his hands,” the PDP legislator called it a betrayal of public trust. “You say you have no authority? The truth is, you were given more political strength than anyone else in recent history. If you cannot act even with that, then the people deserve answers,” he said.
MLA Fayaz cited examples of high voter turnout in areas like Sopore, long known for political apathy and low polling percentages. He said the people came out in large numbers because they believed in democratic change. “From 10–15% turnout, Sopore today records 60% polling. That’s not a coincidence, people voted with hope. They believed one party would take charge and bring change. If leaders now say they are powerless, it’s nothing but disappointing,” he added—(KNO)
