Omar Abdullah Releases Durr-e-Naayaab, Minister Sakina Itoo’s Tribute to Her Father
In a heartfelt ceremony at SKICC Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today released Durr-e-Naayaab, a biography of Late Wali Mohammad Itoo — authored by his daughter, Minister Sakina Itoo. The book serves as a literary tribute to the late leader, who was a distinguished Minister and Speaker of the J&K Legislative Assembly before being assassinated on March 18, 1994, in Jammu.
Speaking on the occasion, the Chief Minister paid glowing tributes to Late Wali Mohammad Itoo, describing him as “a brave, capable, honest and hardworking person who sacrificed his life for the people of Jammu and Kashmir.” Recalling his steadfastness during the years of militancy, Omar Abdullah said, “Even in exile, Itoo Sahib continued serving the people, using his legal acumen to help those in distress. He never gave up on his principles or his people.”
In a moving remark, the Chief Minister said, “A brave father gave a brave daughter to this community. If Itoo Sahib were alive today, he would be proud of Sakina Ji. Her service and dedication across Noorabad, Kulgam, and the entire Jammu and Kashmir are living tributes to her father’s ideals.”
Praising Sakina Itoo’s literary endeavor, Omar Abdullah added, “I always knew Sakina Ji as a capable MLA and an able minister, but today I discovered another dimension — that of a writer. Through Durr-e-Naayaab, she has ensured that future generations remember a leader who lived and died for his people.”
The Chief Minister also conveyed congratulations on behalf of National Conference President and former Chief Minister Dr. Farooq Abdullah, commending Sakina Itoo’s effort to preserve her father’s legacy for posterity.
The event saw participation from several prominent figures including Speaker J&K Legislative Assembly Abdul Rahim Rather, Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Kumar Choudhary, Advisor to the CM Nasir Aslam Wani, former Ministers Ali Mohammad Sagar and Mubarak Gul, MLA M. Yousuf Tarigami, and former legislator Rattan Lal Gupta.
Ministers Javid Dar, Satish Sharma, and newly elected Rajya Sabha MP G.S. Oberoi also attended, along with a large gathering from Kulgam, Noorabad, and D.H. Pora — reflecting the enduring affection and respect for the late leader. A short documentary on the life and contributions of Wali Mohammad Itoo was screened on the occasion, evoking emotional moments among the attendees.
