Omar Abdullah is all set to take over as the chief minister of Jammu and Kashmir -- the youngest in India. In his hour of glory, Onkar Singh caught up with the National Conference leader on his priorities and plans.
What was your agenda during your party's meeting with Congress leaders headed by External Affairs minister Pranab Mukherjee?
Nothing specific. I handed them over a list which includes me -- who would swear in in the next couple of days. I would expect the Congress to do the same.
Is there any agreement on seat-sharing similar to the previous PDP-Congress one?
No such issue came up during the meeting. Everything went off well and I am fully satisfied with the discussions with A K Antony, Gulam Nabi Azad, Prithvi Raj Chavan and Saifuddin Soz. Once I reach Srinagar, I will write to the governor that we would go along with the Congress.
Have you been able to chalk out a common minimum programme?
We will do it later.
Is it true that you want to swear in early so that you could attend the chief ministers' meet on internal security?
Well, that is true. I feel that as the chief minister, I should represent the sentiments of the people.
What are the problems that you would like to address immediately?
During the campaigning, I have realised that getting access to some remote places is difficult in the state. We had to walk for over six hours to reach some places. That should change. People want low-cost electricity, potable water and a corruption-free government.
How will you make sure it is a government free of corruption?
Since I am not going to accept bribes, I would not tolerate any such activities from my colleagues. My government is not going to fall with the exit of one man, because anti-definition laws are more strong than that.
Why did the party drop your father as the chief ministerial candidate?
We want to bring him to the Centre.
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