Jammu, Mar 31 (JKNS): Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Monday shared a striking recollection from the days preceding August 5, 2019, stating that senior National Conference leader Mubarak Gul had accurately anticipated the abrogation of Article 370 and 35-A, along with the bifurcation of Jammu and Kashmir, a full day before it actually happened.
Speaking in the Legislative Assembly, as per news agency JKNS, the Chief Minister said that during the uncertainty and anxiety prevailing in late July and early August 2019, no one could foresee the dramatic developments except Gul, whose prediction at the time seemed improbable.
Omar Abdullah made these remarks while opposing a Private Member’s Bill moved by Mubarak Gul regarding salaries and benefits for the Chief Whip. Despite disagreeing with the proposal, the Chief Minister praised Gul’s stature and recalled how, on August 4, 2019, during internal party discussions at Nawa-i-Subh, Gul had warned that not only would Article 370 and 35-A be revoked, but the state would also be downgraded into Union Territories.
“At that time, I dismissed it as unlikely,” Omar said, adding that the very next day, as events unfolded exactly in that manner, he was left astonished and reminded of Gul’s words.
He noted that the prediction still remains unexplained, calling it a moment he continues to reflect upon.
During the discussion, Gul defended his bill, stating it was intended to ensure due recognition and institutional respect for the role of the Chief Whip in legislative functioning. However, the Chief Minister urged him to withdraw the bill, cautioning that accepting it could lead to similar demands and complications, especially given Jammu and Kashmir’s current status as a Union Territory.
Following the discussion, Mubarak Gul withdrew the bill, while suggesting that similar provisions in other states could be studied for future consideration.
The exchange drew attention in the House, blending political debate with a rare personal reflection on one of the most significant turning points in Jammu and Kashmir’s recent history. (JKNS)
