Srinagar, June 18: National Conference President and former J&K Chief Minister, Dr Farooq Abdullah, who is also a sitting Member Parliament, announced on Saturday afternoon that he is withdrawing from the consideration for the Presidential election process.
Here is the full statement issued by Dr Abdullah to media, a copy of which has been received by Ziraat Times:
I am honoured to have had my name proposed as a possible joint opposition candidate for the office of President of India by Mamata Banerjee Sahiba. Subsequent to Mamata didi proposing my name, I have received a number of calls from opposition leaders offering their support for my candidature.
I have taken a few days to discuss this unexpected development with my family and senior colleagues. I am deeply touched by the support that I’ve received & honoured to have been considered for the highest office in the country. I believe that Jammu & Kashmir is passing through a critical juncture and my efforts are required to help navigate these uncertain times. I have a lot more active politics ahead of me & look forward to making a positive contribution in the service of J&K and the country. Therefore I would like to respectfully withdraw my name from consideration and I look forward to supporting the joint opposition consensus candidate.
I’m very grateful to Mamata didi for proposing my name. I’m also grateful to all the senior leaders who offered me their support.
Dr Farooq Abdullah
President, JKNC
