TDD Correspondent
Srinagar,(TDD): The exclusion of Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah’s birth anniversary from the Jammu and Kashmir holiday calendar for 2025 has ignited a political firestorm, drawing sharp reactions from political leaders, civil society, and residents.
The omission has reignited discussions about the importance of preserving the region’s cultural and historical legacy.
National Conference (NC) leader Nasir Aslam Wani, advisor to former Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, had previously confirmed that a formal request to include December 5 as an official holiday had been submitted to the Lieutenant Governor’s office. Wani expressed hope that the administration would acknowledge Sheikh Abdullah’s contributions, which are widely seen as foundational to the modern identity of Jammu and Kashmir.
“Sheikh Sahib’s legacy is deeply woven into the fabric of our history and identity,” Wani stated. “To overlook his contributions is an insult to the people of Jammu and Kashmir.”
The National Conference has strongly condemned the omission, with Omar Abdullah, the party vice president, labeling it as a deliberate attempt to downplay Sheikh Abdullah’s historical role. “This holiday is not just about a date; it’s about recognizing the towering contributions of Sheikh Sahib to the political and social landscape of Jammu and Kashmir. We urge the administration to reconsider this decision,” Omar said.
Other regional leaders, including People’s Democratic Party (PDP) chief Mehbooba Mufti and Congress, have echoed similar sentiments. Mufti described the omission as an effort to erase the legacy of those who fought for the rights of J&K’s people. “They may remove a date from the calendar, but they cannot erase the profound impact Sheikh Abdullah had on this region,” Mufti said.
The exclusion has also sparked public outrage, with many residents expressing their displeasure. “Sheikh Abdullah brought transformative reforms, including land redistribution and social justice policies. His anniversary should be honored, not ignored,” remarked Javid Ahmad, a historian from Srinagar.
While the LG administration has yet to comment, officials have indicated a possible reduction in regional holidays. Critics argue that such a decision appears to be selective, particularly given the omission of a figure as significant as Sheikh Abdullah.
As the controversy grows, calls for the administration to address the issue and provide clarity are intensifying. This development comes amid ongoing political tensions surrounding the region’s demands for statehood and elections. Whether the LG administration will reconsider its stance remains to be seen, but the matter has already deepened the divide between the administration and regional political parties.(TDD)