On 44th death anniversary, NC turns to archives to honour Sheikh Abdullah
NC marked Sheikh Abdullah's 44th death anniversary with archival videos and tributes, focusing on his legacy rather than policy statements.
The National Conference (NC) marked the 44th death anniversary of its founder, Sheikh Muhammad Abdullah, on Tuesday with a deliberate shift in tone — choosing archival footage over policy pronouncements to underscore his political legacy.
Jammu & Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and NC president Dr. Farooq Abdullah visited the grave of the late leader — popularly remembered as "Baba-e-Qaum" and "Sher-e-Kashmir" — at Nigeen in Srinagar, where senior party leaders joined special prayers.
In his tribute, Omar Abdullah described Sheikh Abdullah as "a towering leader whose place in the history and collective memory of Jammu & Kashmir remains eternal," adding that his name has lived on through generations in the stories and emotions of Kashmir.
In an unusual move, the party's social media handles streamed archival videos, including footage of the founder's funeral procession and a clip showing former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi consoling the family in Srinagar. Sharing one such video, Omar Abdullah said the Sheikh's life was dedicated to the dignity, rights, and aspirations of the people of J&K.
Speaking in Jammu, minister Satish Sharma reiterated the party's commitment to the secular and inclusive identity of the region — "a vision championed by Sheikh Abdullah throughout his life." He also recalled the Land Reforms Act introduced under the Sheikh's leadership, calling it a historic measure that empowered farmers and reshaped the socio-economic fabric of J&K.
Sheikh Abdullah, who was removed from power and detained outside the erstwhile state in 1953, spent decades navigating a complex relationship with the Centre while consistently advocating for the restoration of J&K's pre-1953 position as a political settlement.