Don’t come to offer condolences if you want to do politics: CM Omar

Srinagar : Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Thursday said political leaders should not use condolence visits as a platform for politics, saying those who come to offer condolences to his family on Dr Mustafa Kamal’s demise should refrain from making political statements outside.

Speaking to reporters, CM Omar, per news agency said those who wish to do politics need not come to offer condolences.

“If you want to do politics, then don’t come to offer condolences. You come to our home to express sympathy and then step outside to make political statements. Grief and politics should not be mixed,” he said, adding that he would not discuss politics during the mourning period.

Responding to a query, the Chief Minister expressed concern over the health of activist Sonam Wangchuk, who has been on a hunger strike for 19 days in New Delhi.

CM Omar said it was surprising that despite Wangchuk reportedly losing around 9 kg weight during the fast, the government had made no effort to initiate dialogue or persuade him to end the hunger strike.

“Politics has its place, but humanity and compassion should come first. During Anna Hazare’s hunger strike, the then government led by Dr Manmohan Singh sent ministers to hold talks and persuade him to end the fast. But no one has even tried to speak to Sonam Wangchuk. We don’t know what the government will do next, but we are concerned about his health,” he said—(KNO)