Farooq Abdullah steps down as NC chief, says time for new generation

After four decades, former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister and 85 years old senior leader Farooq Abdullah realised that the time for the new generation to take over the responsibilities. On Friday he  stepped down as the president of the National Conference,saying it is time to hand over the mantle to the new generation. The move comes as Jammu and Kashmir prepares for polls. “Dr Farooq Abdullah has informed his colleagues of his decision to step down as president of JKNC. In spite of the best efforts of senior colleagues in the party DrAbdullah was adamant that he wouldn’t review his decision,” read a party statement. I will not be contesting for the post of president any longer. The elections for the post will be held on December 5. It is time for the new generation to take over the responsibilities, he said. Jammu and Kashmir is expected to hold its first elections after Article 370 - that gave special status to J&K - was scrapped in 2019. Earlier this month, Farooq Abdullah had said that his party - the National Conference was ready for polls.