Rich tributes paid to Sheikh Abdullah

anniversary of the leader known as “Sher-e-Kashmir” (Lion of Kashmir).

The Governor recalled the period during which Abdullah had worked with eminent national leaders like Mahatma Gandhi and Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru and strived for strengthening the cherished values of secularism and democracy in the state.

The Governor referred to the crucial Land Reforms pioneered by Abdullah,which laid the foundations of equitable development of the state,and the high priority he had devoted to the development of health and education.

Vohra said the best tribute to Abdullah would be for the people to work with a missionary zeal for re-establishing J&K’s deep rooted secular traditions for ensuring sustained peace and normalcy in the state which would usher in progress and prosperity.

Meanwhile,a spokesman of ruling National Conference said separate functions have been planned in connection with the death anniversary of Abdullah across the state tomorrow.

The largest congregation will be held at Abdullah’sgraveyard at Naseem Bagh near the holy Hazratbal shrine on the banks of Dal Lake,he said.

He said the function will start at 9 am with recitation of Holy Quran followed by a ‘Fatiha Khawni’ (special prayers) which will be attended by the leadership of the party including working President and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah.

A similar function will also be held at all district headquarters including the Sheri Kashmir Bhawan in the winter capital Jammu,the spokesman said.