Srinagar, Nov 14: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Friday said that senior National Conference leader and Member of Parliament Aga Ruhullah “damaged himself politically” by stepping away from the Budgam bypoll campaign, saying the move was intended to send a message to the party but ultimately hurt Ruhullah more than anyone else.
Speaking to reporters, CM Omar used the English expression “you cut your nose to spite your face” to describe Ruhullah’s decision.
“Ruhullah killed himself to give me a message,” Omar said. “But remember, the person who has won from there will never let Ruhullah rise again.”
The Chief Minister added that Ruhullah’s political revival in Budgam would now depend on his own ability to reclaim space.
“Only Ruhullah can decide whether he will rise again in Budgam or not,” he said. “Whatever happened, happened.”
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Omar acknowledged that NC anticipated a tough contest even before the campaigning began.
“In Budgam, people do not vote only on work,” he said. “There is a significant section that does not vote on issues at all. Many voters make their choice quietly, behind the curtain. So I already knew it wouldn’t be easy for us.”
He said the final outcome was influenced by a combination of silent votes, internal dissatisfaction and evolving political sentiment.
“We accept the verdict and move forward,” the Chief Minister added. (KNC)
