Omar Abdullah, Vice President of the Jammu and Kashmir National Conference (JKNC), has launched his campaign for the upcoming elections in Jammu and Kashmir, focusing on restoring the region’s lost identity and rights post-Article 370. In his speeches, he has emphasised on the challenges faced by the people, particularly the youth struggling with unemployment, and has voiced concerns over the diminishing local control over land, employment, and governance. His campaign pledges a strong push to reclaim these rights and address the issues that have emerged over the past decade under BJP rule. In a recent speech, he addressed concerns about the current political and social situation in Kashmir. He posed the question, “Why do people from jail come after me to contest elections?” signaling his critique of the post-Article 370 landscape. He described the upcoming election as the first since significant changes occurred, affecting “our land, our contracts, our employment, our honour, our existence, our identity.” He highlighted the election as a crucial moment where efforts are being made to diminish the influence of the people. He further questioned whether the public is content with the current state of affairs, pointing to dissatisfaction over the perceived loss of control over local resources, employment opportunities, and governance. He expressed concern about the challenges faced by the youth, especially with rising unemployment, and the growing disconnect between local people and government institutions. Reflecting on his past participation in election campaigns for Parliament, Assembly, and Municipal elections, Abdullah noted that this was his first opportunity to address the people of ompora. He expressed both satisfaction at making this connection and regret that the bond between the leadership and the public had not been stronger in the past. However, he assured the audience that if successful in the upcoming elections, that after October 8, you and I will have a very close relationship,” pledging to address the community’s issues. He concluded by pledging that his party would work to address these issues and restore what has been lost, with the support of the people.