SRINAGAR: As protests unfolded outside his official residence in the Gupkar area, Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah took to Facebook to share an evocative excerpt from Rudyard Kipling’s iconic poem “If—”. Demonstrating his characteristic composure and wit, Omar’s post urged maintaining calm and resilience, even when surrounded by turmoil.
The protest, led by National Conference MP Syed Aga Ruhullah, saw political leaders and students demanding changes to the state’s reservation policy. Amid the charged atmosphere, Omar’s post resonated with themes of patience, self-trust, and dignity in the face of adversity.
The post read:
“If you can keep your head when all about you
Are losing theirs and blaming it on you,
If you can trust yourself when all men doubt you,
But make allowance for their doubting too;
If you can wait and not be tired by waiting,
Or being lied about, don’t deal in lies,
Or being hated, don’t give way to hating,
And yet don’t look too good, nor talk too wise…”
The Chief Minister’s message seemed to address the ongoing political and social challenges, stressing endurance and a balanced perspective.
Omar Abdullah’s calm demeanor has often been noted during turbulent times in Jammu and Kashmir’s political landscape. (KDC)
