Aijaz Ahmed
In August 2019, the Indian government made a historic decision to revoke Article 370, effectively stripping Jammu and Kashmir of its special status and bifurcating the state into two Union Territories. This move, met with both applause and condemnation, sent shockwaves across the region, reshaping its political landscape in ways previously unforeseen. For the National Conference, a party deeply rooted in the history and identity of Jammu and Kashmir, the abrogation of Article 370 marked a pivotal moment—a moment that tested its resilience, adaptability, and commitment to its core values.
At the heart of the National Conference’s response to the post-370 era was its slogan “Azze Yazzath 370″—a rallying cry that echoed the sentiments of many Kashmiris who saw the revocation as an assault on their identity and autonomy. In the face of unprecedented challenges, the party found itself at a crossroads, forced to reassess its strategies and priorities in order to navigate the turbulent waters ahead.
The National Conference, founded in 1932 by Sheikh Abdullah, has been a prominent political force in Jammu and Kashmir for decades. Born into a noble family in 1905, Sheikh Abdullah was a charismatic leader who played a pivotal role in shaping the region’s political landscape. A staunch advocate for Kashmiri rights, he led the struggle against the autocratic rule of the Maharaja and became the voice of the Kashmiri people.
Under Sheikh Abdullah’s leadership, the National Conference championed the cause of democracy, secularism, and social justice, garnering widespread support across the region. In 1947, following India’s independence, Sheikh Abdullah became the Prime Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, leading the state through a period of significant social and economic reform.
Today, the National Conference carries forward Sheikh Abdullah’s legacy, advocating for the rights and aspirations of the people of Jammu and Kashmir in the face of ever-changing political dynamics. Led by leaders like Farooq Abdullah and Omar Abdullah, the party remains committed to its founding principles, even in the face of adversity.
Farooq Abdullah, a towering figure in Kashmiri politics, has played a pivotal role in shaping the National Conference’s trajectory in the post-370 era. Born in 1937, Farooq Abdullah followed in his father’s footsteps, emerging as a prominent leader in his own right. He served as the Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir on multiple occasions, leading the state through periods of both stability and turmoil.
Under Farooq Abdullah’s leadership, the National Conference has remained steadfast in its commitment to defending the rights and autonomy of the people of Jammu and Kashmir. Despite facing challenges from various quarters, including the central government, the party has continued to advocate for dialogue, reconciliation, and the restoration of normalcy in the region.
Omar Abdullah, the son of Farooq Abdullah, represents the next generation of leadership within the National Conference. Born in 1970, Omar Abdullah entered politics at a young age, following in the footsteps of his father and grandfather. He served as the Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir from 2009 to 2015, overseeing the state during a period of significant political upheaval.
Throughout his career, Omar Abdullah has been a vocal advocate for dialogue and reconciliation in Jammu and Kashmir. Despite facing criticism and opposition from various quarters, he has remained steadfast in his commitment to finding peaceful solutions to the region’s longstanding conflicts.
Fast forward to the present day, and the National Conference stands poised on the brink of yet another crucial moment in its history—the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. In a surprising turn of events, Omar Abdullah, the party’s vice president, has announced his decision to contest from the Baramulla constituency, a departure from his previous runs in Srinagar. This strategic move, reminiscent of the party’s resilience in the aftermath of the 1984 elections, speaks volumes about the National Conference’s unwavering commitment to its principles and its willingness to confront challenges head-on.
The parallels drawn between Omar Abdullah’s candidacy in Baramulla and Begum Akbar Jahan’s victory in the 1984 elections offer valuable insights into the party’s ethos of defying expectations and embracing adversity. Just as Begum Akbar Jahan stood as a symbol of hope amidst political turmoil, Omar Abdullah’s candidacy represents a continuation of that legacy—a testament to the party’s enduring spirit and determination.
However, the road ahead is far from easy. The aftermath of the 2019 developments has left the National Conference grappling with a myriad of challenges, from internal dissent to external pressures. In a climate where the might of the central government and the BJP looms large, the party finds itself facing formidable odds as it prepares for the upcoming elections.
Yet, amidst the uncertainty and adversity, the National Conference remains undeterred. With a rich legacy of resilience and a firm belief in the power of democracy, the party stands poised to write the next chapter in Jammu and Kashmir’s political history. As it embarks on this journey, it does so with determination, conviction, and the unwavering belief that the voices of the people will ultimately prevail.
In conclusion, the National Conference’s journey in the post-370 era is a testament to its enduring strength and resilience. As it navigates the challenges and uncertainties of the present moment, the party remains steadfast in its commitment to its core values and the people it represents. With Omar Abdullah’s candidacy in Baramulla, the National Conference reaffirms its belief in the power of democracy and its unwavering dedication to the ideals of justice, equality, and freedom for all.
