A senior leader of the National Conference, Mubarak Gul, had accurately predicted the abrogation of Articles 370 and 35A, and the subsequent downgrading of Jammu and Kashmir into Union Territories, a day before the events of August 5, 2019, unfolded. This recollection was shared by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Monday.
Information was available with The Chenab Times that during a legislative session, Omar Abdullah reminisced about the period of profound confusion and anxiety in July-August 2019. He stated that while many were uncertain about the future of Jammu and Kashmir, it was Mubarak Gul who accurately foretold the significant constitutional and territorial changes.
Abdullah recounted the events of August 4, 2019, when party colleagues were deliberating at the National Conference headquarters, Nawa-i-Subh. He described the prevailing atmosphere as one of uncertainty, with no one anticipating the drastic measures to be taken the following day. It was during this time that Mubarak Gul reportedly stated, “You people know nothing. Article 370 and 35 A will go. Not only that we are going to lose even our State as it will be truncated into two parts (UTs).” Abdullah admitted to having laughed at Gul’s prediction, considering it beyond the realm of possibility at that moment.
He further recalled telling Gul that such a move would be improbable, suggesting that if any such action were to be taken by the central government, it would likely occur during an election year to leverage electoral benefits. However, on August 5, when Jammu and Kashmir’s autonomy was effectively dismantled and the state was divided into two Union Territories, Abdullah found himself astonished as events unfolded precisely as Gul had predicted.
The Chief Minister expressed his surprise and regret for having initially dismissed Gul’s forecast. The exact mechanism or information that led Gul to make such a precise prediction remains a mystery, as noted by Abdullah. The anecdote was shared amid laughter from the entire legislative house, highlighting the remarkable accuracy of Gul’s foresight.
The discussion arose in the context of Mubarak Gul, currently the Chief Whip of the National Conference, moving a Private Members’ Bill. The bill sought to provide for the Salaries, Allowances, and other benefits of the Chief Whip of the majority party in the Legislative Assembly of the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, who also holds the portfolio of Law and Parliamentary Affairs, opposed the introduction of the bill.
Gul defended his bill, stating that he was not seeking benefits for himself but for his successors, future Chief Whips. He mentioned having presented a similar bill in the past and reiterated his proposal after studying comparable legislation in other states, copies of which he had shared with the Assembly Secretariat, Chief Minister, and the Speaker. He emphasized the critical role of the Chief Whip in facilitating government business, ensuring party majority on legislative matters, and acting as a vital link between the government, the party, and opposition parties.
While acknowledging the significant role and respect commanded by Mubarak Gul, irrespective of his position, Chief Minister Abdullah requested him to withdraw the bill, citing government opposition. He explained that accepting the bill could set a precedent and lead to similar demands from other quarters, such as the opposition leader who already enjoys cabinet status. He also noted that while other states might have such provisions, Jammu and Kashmir, as a Union Territory, currently has limited parallels, with only Puducherry and Delhi having assemblies but not this specific provision for a Chief Whip.
Mubarak Gul, thanking the Chief Minister for his acknowledgement, subsequently withdrew his bill. He did, however, suggest that the Assembly Secretary, Law Secretary, and other relevant officials should review the legislation from other states, believing it would be beneficial for future Chief Whips.
The Chenab Times News Desk