News for 'Chief Minister Omar Abdullah'

Omar Abdullah detained at US airport for 2 hours for checks

Omar Abdullah detained at US airport for 2 hours for checks

Rediff.com17 Oct 2016

The former Jammu-Kashmir chief minister was subjected to a "secondary immigration check" upon his arrival in the United States.

Tiranga Yatra Near Dal Lake

Tiranga Yatra Near Dal Lake

Rediff.com12 Aug 2025

Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah along with scores of Srinagar residents participated in a Tiranga Yatra along the famed Dal Lake.

Omar's 'chance meet' with Rijiju sparks political storm

Omar's 'chance meet' with Rijiju sparks political storm

Rediff.com7 Apr 2025

A chance meeting between Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and Union minister Kiren Rijiju at the Tulip Garden in Srinagar has sparked a political storm, with opposition parties accusing the National Conference of laying out a red carpet for the BJP leader in the aftermath of the Waqf Amendment Act. While NC sources termed the interaction as a purely coincidental encounter, opposition parties like the PDP and Peoples' Conference condemned the meeting, accusing the NC of surrendering to the BJP. The Waqf (Amendment) Bill, passed by Parliament last week, aims to streamline the management of Waqf properties with provisions to safeguard heritage sites and promote social welfare.

Cong rebel part of Omar govt while party sits out

Cong rebel part of Omar govt while party sits out

Rediff.com17 Oct 2024

Congress rebel Satish Sharma, who defeated the Bharatiya Janata Party's Rajeev Sharma by nearly 7,000 votes and relegated his former party's heavyweight Tara Chand to the third position in the Chhamb seat, has found a place in the Omar Abdullah government, representing the Jammu region in the dispensation.

NC, BJP take out protests against each other in Srinagar

NC, BJP take out protests against each other in Srinagar

Rediff.com2 Sep 2026

The National Conference and BJP held significant protests in Jammu and Kashmir, accusing each other of failing to deliver on promises. The NC demanded the restoration of statehood, while the BJP criticised the NC government's performance on issues like jobs and corruption, marking the first major political unrest since Article 370's abrogation.

HC rejects Omar Abdullah's divorce plea, finds no merit in cruelty charge

HC rejects Omar Abdullah's divorce plea, finds no merit in cruelty charge

Rediff.com12 Dec 2023

The Delhi high court on Tuesday dismissed National Conference leader Omar Abdullah's plea seeking divorce from his estranged wife on grounds of cruelty, saying there was no merit in his appeal.

Dal Lake Lights Up With Khelo India

Dal Lake Lights Up With Khelo India

Rediff.com22 Aug 2025

Srinagar's Dal Lake on Friday witnessed history as the first-ever Khelo India Water Sports Festival was inaugurated in Jammu and Kashmir, drawing over 800 participants from across India and abroad.

Student refuses to accept award from Omar Abdullah

Student refuses to accept award from Omar Abdullah

Rediff.com29 Apr 2009

Abdullah faced an embarrassing situation at the annual day function of the Acharya Shri Chander College of Medical Sciences in Jammu, as an awardee refused to accept an award from him. Not only this, the awardee then used the platform to air the grievances of student community, much to the chagrin of CM.

'No virus': Toxic pesticides, cadmium suspected in Rajouri mystery deaths

'No virus': Toxic pesticides, cadmium suspected in Rajouri mystery deaths

Rediff.com29 Mar 2026

Fresh findings suggest pesticide compounds and elevated cadmium levels may be linked to the deaths of 17 people in a remote village in Rajouri district.

NC cries foul as Omar Abdullah is questioned by ED in J&K Bank case

NC cries foul as Omar Abdullah is questioned by ED in J&K Bank case

Rediff.com7 Apr 2022

The Enforcement Directorate questioned former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Omar Abdullah for five hours on Thursday in connection with a case related to the purchase of a building by the J&K Bank about 12 years ago when he was in office, officials said in New Delhi.

Don't see 'good days' yet: Omar Abdullah on Union Budget

Don't see 'good days' yet: Omar Abdullah on Union Budget

Rediff.com11 Jul 2014

Omar welcomed the announcement of setting up of an IIT in Jammu and expressed hope that something similar would be announced for Kashmir to maintain regional balance.

'Waqf law bonhomie': Oppn slams Omar's Tulip garden meet with Rijiju

'Waqf law bonhomie': Oppn slams Omar's Tulip garden meet with Rijiju

Rediff.com7 Apr 2025

The opposition Peoples' Democratic Party and Peoples' Conference targeted the ruling National Conference over the meeting, and accused it of surrendering to the Bharatiya Janata Party without even a pretence over the passage of the Waqf act.

Oppn wants CEC sacked, jailed; seeks repoll in Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Bengal

Oppn wants CEC sacked, jailed; seeks repoll in Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Bengal

Rediff.com24 Sep 2026

Opposition parties in India are demanding the impeachment and arrest of Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar, alleging he is running the poll panel as a 'one-man autocracy' following revelations that two Election Commissioners red-flagged issues related to the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls.

The Row Over Kashmir's Martyrs' Day

The Row Over Kashmir's Martyrs' Day

Rediff.com15 Jul 2025

Visuals of Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah scaling the gate of the Naqshband Sahib graveyard and jostling with securitymen deployed there have gone viral.

Ex-CJI skips ex-RAW chief's book launch amid Abdullah row

Ex-CJI skips ex-RAW chief's book launch amid Abdullah row

Rediff.com18 Apr 2025

Former Chief Justice of India T S Thakur has decided to skip the book release function of former R&AW chief A S Dulat's book, "The Chief Minister and The Spy", citing the political storm over certain parts of the book concerning National Conference president Farooq Abdullah. Thakur stated that the controversy and its political overtones would be an embarrassment for him, given his long association with the Abdullah family and his desire to remain apolitical. He also noted that Farooq Abdullah has publicly "disowned, if not denounced" the statements attributed to him in the book. The book release function was scheduled for Friday, April 18, 2020.

PM praised Omar for governance: Farooq Abdullah

PM praised Omar for governance: Farooq Abdullah

Rediff.com15 Sep 2010

Prime Minister Manmohan Singh has praised Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah for his governance, Union Minister and President of National Conference Farooq Abdullah said on Thursday.

Pahalgam ponywallah died trying to save tourists: Omar

Pahalgam ponywallah died trying to save tourists: Omar

Rediff.com23 Apr 2025

Syed Adil Hussain Shah, a 30-year-old pony ride operator, was killed while trying to protect tourists from terrorists in Pahalgam, Kashmir. He was shot dead while trying to snatch a weapon from one of the terrorists. The attack claimed the lives of 26 people, mostly tourists. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah visited Pahalgam to offer condolences to the families of the victims and praised Shah's bravery. Shah was laid to rest in his ancestral village with hundreds of mourners attending.

Omar meets PM: What is Centre's plan on restoring J-K statehood?

Omar meets PM: What is Centre's plan on restoring J-K statehood?

Rediff.com24 Oct 2024

This restoration, according to the officials, is seen as a crucial step towards initiating a healing process, reinstating constitutional rights and safeguarding the unique identity of the region's residents.

Omar Abdullah seeks judicial probe on Kashmir unrest

Omar Abdullah seeks judicial probe on Kashmir unrest

Rediff.com17 Aug 2016

All opposition parties from J&K to apprise President of Kashmir situation.

Let's Not Get Flattered By Sergei Gor's Kashmir Remarks

Let's Not Get Flattered By Sergei Gor's Kashmir Remarks

Rediff.com20 Aug 2026

New Delhi must look for formal, institutional statements issued directly from Washington rather than rely on casual pronouncements meant for local audiences, notes Ambassador Rajasekhar.

'A golden chapter in the sporting history of J&K'

'A golden chapter in the sporting history of J&K'

Rediff.com18 Feb 2026

J&K CM congratulates cricket team after historic entry into Ranji Trophy final

LG clears Omar cabinet's resolution seeking to restore J-K statehood

LG clears Omar cabinet's resolution seeking to restore J-K statehood

Rediff.com19 Oct 2024

Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha has cleared a resolution passed by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah-led cabinet urging the Centre to restore the statehood to the Union territory, officials said on Saturday.

'Rahul's claims incorrect, unfortunate President is being involved'

'Rahul's claims incorrect, unfortunate President is being involved'

Rediff.com10 Oct 2026

Sources have refuted Rahul Gandhi's claims regarding President Droupadi Murmu's response to 'vote chori' allegations, stating it's 'unfortunate' she's being drawn into the controversy. Meanwhile, the INDIA bloc, after meeting the President, has vowed to provide a 'mountain of proof' to support their claims of electoral malpractice and demand for the CEC's resignation.

Farooq Abdullah Attributes Survival to Divine Intervention, Questions Security Lapse

Farooq Abdullah Attributes Survival to Divine Intervention, Questions Security Lapse

Rediff.com12 Mar 2026

Veteran politician Farooq Abdullah survived an assassination attempt at a wedding in Jammu, raising concerns about security protocols for high-profile individuals. Abdullah attributes his survival to divine intervention and the bravery of his security detail, while calling for a thorough investigation into the incident and the apparent lack of police presence.

End INDIA alliance if...: Omar amid AAP vs Cong in Delhi

End INDIA alliance if...: Omar amid AAP vs Cong in Delhi

Rediff.com9 Jan 2025

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah expressed concern about the lack of clarity regarding the INDIA bloc's leadership and agenda, suggesting the alliance should be dissolved if it was only formed for parliamentary elections. He called for a meeting of the alliance members after the Delhi Assembly elections to discuss the bloc's future and decide on a collective strategy. Abdullah also highlighted the need for a clear vision and leadership within the INDIA bloc. His remarks come amid speculation about the alliance's future and its ability to effectively challenge the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

Why Did Manoj Sinha Accept Blame For Pahalgam Massacre?

Why Did Manoj Sinha Accept Blame For Pahalgam Massacre?

Rediff.com23 Jul 2025

The delayed timing of J&K Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha's admission has more to do with deflecting the thrust of the Opposition attack on the prime minister and Union home minister during the monsoon session of Parliament, points out Mohammad Sayeed Malik, the distinguished commentator on Kashmir affairs.

300 tourists rescued after Gulmarg Gondola stalls midair

300 tourists rescued after Gulmarg Gondola stalls midair

Rediff.com26 May 2026

Hundreds of tourists were safely rescued from the Gulmarg Gondola cable car system in Jammu and Kashmir after it developed technical problems, leading to the suspension of operations.

Omar's party responds to reports of aligning with BJP

Omar's party responds to reports of aligning with BJP

Rediff.com22 Dec 2024

The National Conference on Sunday ruled out joining the Bharatiya Janata Party-led National Democratic Alliance and dismissed as baseless a media report in this regard.

Omar decides to step down as caretaker chief minister

Omar decides to step down as caretaker chief minister

Rediff.com8 Jan 2015

The political impasse in Jammu and Kashmir has taken a new turn with Omar Abdullah deciding not to continue as caretaker chief minister, arguing that the state needed a full-time administrator to deal with the situation along the border with Pakistan.

Centre tries to curtail powers of new J-K govt, CM, alleges Omar; MHA denies

Centre tries to curtail powers of new J-K govt, CM, alleges Omar; MHA denies

Rediff.com5 Oct 2024

The strong statement from Union Home Minister Amit Shah's office came after former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Omar Abdullah asked bureaucrats in the Union Territory to resist any pressure to "further disempower" the incoming elected government.

After Keralam, chorus for renaming Delhi, West Bengal

After Keralam, chorus for renaming Delhi, West Bengal

Rediff.com25 Feb 2026

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has urged the central government to approve West Bengal's request to rename the state, following the approval of a similar proposal for Kerala.

Cop on Amarnath security duty killed in Anantnag terrorist attack

Cop on Amarnath security duty killed in Anantnag terrorist attack

Rediff.com22 Jul 2026

A head constable on Amarnath Yatra security duty was killed in a terror attack in Anantnag, Jammu and Kashmir. The Resistance Front (TRF) has claimed responsibility for the attack, prompting security forces to launch a search operation.

Hope my demotion won't last long: Omar's banter with Modi

Hope my demotion won't last long: Omar's banter with Modi

Rediff.com6 Jun 2025

Mixing humour with political resolve, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Friday used the flagging-off ceremony of the first train to Kashmir by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Katra to subtly but clearly articulate his government's demand for the restoration of statehood to Jammu and Kashmir.

India's Top Golfers Vie For Rs 1 Crore Prize At J&K Open

India's Top Golfers Vie For Rs 1 Crore Prize At J&K Open

Rediff.com2 Aug 2026

The fifth edition of the J&K Open golf tournament, featuring a doubled prize purse of Rs 1 crore, is set to begin at the Royal Springs Golf Course in Srinagar. Defending champion Shaurya Bhattacharya will compete against top Indian professionals and international players, with the event also aiming to boost golf tourism in the region.

Will Farooq Abdullah Gift Omar NC Mantle?

Will Farooq Abdullah Gift Omar NC Mantle?

Rediff.com5 Dec 2022

Last month, Dr Farooq Abdullah announced that he would step down as president of the National Conference in December, saying it is time to hand over the mantle to the new generation.

Pahalgam attack didn't stall talks of J-K statehood: Abdullah

Pahalgam attack didn't stall talks of J-K statehood: Abdullah

Rediff.com28 May 2025

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has stated that the conversation regarding the restoration of statehood to Jammu and Kashmir has not been stalled. He claims the issue was raised at the recent NITI Aayog governing council meeting, and the formal speech distributed at the meeting includes a mention of the return of statehood. Abdullah also addressed concerns about the impact of the Pahalgam terror attack on tourism, emphasizing the importance of local Kashmiris visiting tourist spots first to revive the industry and ensure a sense of security.

'Will Pahalgam killers decide...': Omar in I-Day speech

'Will Pahalgam killers decide...': Omar in I-Day speech

Rediff.com15 Aug 2025

Chief Minister Omar Abdullah strongly criticized linking Jammu and Kashmir's political future to acts of terror, asserting that Pakistan cannot influence decisions on the region's statehood through terrorism. He announced a signature campaign to press for the restoration of statehood.

Pahalgam attack: Amit Shah chairs high-level meeting of security officials

Pahalgam attack: Amit Shah chairs high-level meeting of security officials

Rediff.com23 Apr 2025

Union Home Minister Amit Shah arrived in Srinagar to review the security situation in Kashmir following a deadly terror attack in Pahalgam that killed 26 people, including tourists. Shah chaired a high-level meeting of security officials, including those from the Army, CRPF, and police. The attack, claimed by The Resistance Front (TRF), a shadow group of the banned Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) terror group, is the deadliest in the valley since the 2019 Pulwama strike.

COVID-19 vaccines don't belong to any political party: Omar Abdullah

COVID-19 vaccines don't belong to any political party: Omar Abdullah

Rediff.com2 Jan 2021

The more people get vaccinated, the better it will be for the country and the economy, the National Conference vice president said.

Road ahead for J&K's youngest chief minister

Road ahead for J&K's youngest chief minister

Rediff.com3 Jan 2009

Young National Conference Chief Omar Abdullah, who is set to don the mantle of chief minister on Monday, has a difficult road ahead with terrorism as well as growing regional and urban-rural divide in Jammu and Kashmir certain to be high on his agenda.