Omar Abdullah Rules Out Leadership Change in INDIA Bloc, Backs Rahul Gandhi

Srinagar, Feb 23, KNT: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Monday ruled out any possibility of a leadership change within the INDIA bloc, asserting that Rahul Gandhi has fulfilled his role as Leader of the Opposition by consistently targeting the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party.

Speaking to reporters at Gulmarg, Omar Abdullah said Rahul Gandhi had done everything expected of an opposition leader and had left no stone unturned in holding the ruling party accountable. He described Gandhi’s performance in opposition as effective and consistent.

Responding to remarks made by senior Congress leader Mani Shankar Aiyar suggesting a possible leadership rethink within the opposition alliance, Omar Abdullah said Aiyar was entitled to his opinion. However, he clarified that there was no discussion or proposal under consideration regarding any change in leadership of the INDIA bloc.

On a separate question related to tourism, the Chief Minister said global climate patterns have changed significantly since the 1970s, noting that artificial snow has become a necessity in most Winter Olympic venues across the world. He observed that if winter patterns continue to fluctuate, Gulmarg may also require artificial snow infrastructure in the future to sustain and boost winter tourism.

He indicated that the government would assess long term requirements to maintain Gulmarg’s status as a premier winter destination and ensure steady tourist inflow despite inconsistent snowfall. [KNT]