SRINAGAR, July 14 (KNS): Senior National Conference leader and former cabinet minister Sheikh Mustafa Kamal passed away here on Tuesday, party sources said. He was 83.
Kamal, who was the Additional General Secretary of the party, breathed his last at his residence after a prolonged illness, they said.
A medical graduate, Kamal was the younger son of Jammu and Kashmir's founding leader Sher-e-Kashmir Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah. He was the brother of NC president and former chief minister Farooq Abdullah and uncle of incumbent Chief Minister Omar Abdullah.
Kamal served as a cabinet minister during various NC-led governments, handling key portfolios including Industries and Commerce. He had been actively associated with the party for over five decades and played a pivotal role in its organisational affairs.
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Chief Minister Omar Abdullah expressed condolences over the demise of his uncle. "Deeply saddened by the loss. Sheikh Mustafa Kamal was a dedicated leader and a steadfast worker of the National Conference. His contribution to public life and the party will always be remembered," he said.
NC president Farooq Abdullah also mourned the loss, describing his younger brother as a "pillar of strength" for the party.
Leaders across the political spectrum condoled his death and recalled his services to the people of Jammu and Kashmir.
Further details regarding his funeral and last rites are awaited. (KNS)