Srinagar, Sept 07 (KNS) : The Jammu & Kashmir National Conference rank and file offer glowing tributes to party founder Sher e Kashmir Sheikh Muhammad Abdullah on his 43rd death anniversary.

In a statement issued, The party hailed him as a man of iron will and unwavering dedication to the people of Jammu, Kashmir, and Ladakh.

A central commemorative event is set to take place at his mausoleum in Naseem Bagh, Hazratbal. The day will begin with Quran Khawani, floral tributes, and Fatiha Khawani, led by party president Dr. Farooq Abdullah and vice president and honourable Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, alongside senior party functionaries. Similar tributes will be paid at Sher-i-Kashmir Bhawan in Jammu and other district headquarters across J&K and Ladakh.

Describing Sher-e-Kashmir as a towering figure in the history of Jammu and Kashmir, the National Conference rank and file said he transformed the region from a feudal, colonial society into a progressive, democratic, and secular one. The party leaders referred to him as a political colossus and a father figure whose legacy still defines the region’s aspirations.

An ardent champion of socialism and democracy, Sher-e-Kashmir’s vision was captured in the 'Naya Kashmir' manifesto.

This progressive charter promised freedom of the press, freedom of assembly, and the upliftment of the poor, regardless of caste, creed, religion, or region. His policies aimed to dismantle feudal structures through the abolition of landlordism and redistribution of land to the tillers.

The party noted that Sheikh sahib’s inclusive politics and deep commitment to pluralism earned him respect far beyond Jammu and Kashmir. He symbolised the collective voice of the Jammu and Kashmir people like no other leader of his time, and his name became synonymous across India with humanism, secularism, and social justice.

The National Conference also highlighted the secular composition of the first cabinet under Sheikh Abdullah’s leadership, which included leaders like GL Dogra, Sardar Budh Singh, Kushak Bakula, and DP Dhar, underscoring his inclusive vision.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel

“Sheikh Sahib’s political journey was not a quest for power, but a lifelong struggle for dignity, justice, and empowerment of the common people,” the statement read. “His spirit of tolerance and mutual respect continues to guide us today.”

As the region prepares to commemorate his legacy, the National Conference reaffirmed its commitment to the ideals he stood for: unity, equality, and a just society for all.

Among those who paid tributes were General Secretary Ali Muhammad Sagar, Treasurer Shammi Oberoi, Advisor to the Hon’ble Chief Minister Nasir Aslam Wani, Chief Spokesperson Tanvir Sadiq, and senior leaders Choudhary Muhammad Ramzan, Muhammad Shafi Uri, Abdul Rahim Rather, Mubarak Gul, Shameema Firdous, Sakina Itoo, Sajad Ahmad Kichloo, Khalid Najeeb Suharwardhy, and Qamar Ali Akhoon.

Political Advisors Mudassar Shahmiri and Mushtaq Guroo, along with Party Members of Parliament Mian Altaf Ahmad and Aga Syed Ruhullah Mehdi, Hon'ble MLA's also extended their tributes.

Provincial office bearers including Provincial President (Kashmir) Showkat Mir and Provincial President (Jammu) Rattan Lal Gupta, as well as media and social media functionaries—State Spokesperson Imran Nabi Dar, Additional State Spokesperson Sarah Hayat Shah, and Social Media Head Ifra Jan—joined in remembering him.

From the Women's Wing, tributes were paid by Provincial President (Kashmir) Er. Sabiya Qadri and Provincial President (Jammu) Satwant Kour Dogra. Youth National Conference (YNC) functionaries including Provincial President (Kashmir) Mir Mushtaq and Provincial President (Jammu) Tejinder Singh Pal Aman also paid homage.

Sardar J.S. Azad represented the Minority Wing in offering his respects. Numerous party legislators, zonal functionaries, and other provincial and state-level leaders likewise paid heartfelt tribute.(KNS)