Srinagar, Oct 16: Electrifying atmosphere was witnessed in and outside Sher-e-Kashmir International Convention Centre (SKICC) here as Omar Abdullah took oath as the Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir.
Five other minister were administered the oath of office and secrecy by the Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha.
Security was tight around the venue, with heavy deployment of paramilitary forces and the Jammu and Kashmir police, but the mood was one of celebration as supporters thronged the streets leading to the SKICC, some bursting firecrackers and others carrying placards with Abdullah’s face on them.
The ceremony commenced and concluded with the national anthem, setting the tone for the solemn yet festive occasion. The large audience included prominent politicians, senior officials, media personnel, and key figures from civil society.
As Omar Abdullah stood to take the oath, the hall erupted with applause and cheers, reflecting the palpable excitement among the attendees.
The atmosphere was charged, with party members and leaders of the Congress, PDP and independent candidates in attendance. The dignitaries, dressed in traditional Kashmiri attire and formal wear, stood in respect as national anthem was sung.
Once the official proceedings were over, Omar Abdullah, along with other newly sworn-in ministers, greeted the crowd with smiles and waves. The Chief Minister made it a point to shake hands with most of the dignitaries, who gathered around him on the SKICC lawns during the tea break.
The ceremony was followed by a high tea reception, where politicians and officials were seen exchanging pleasantries in a relaxed atmosphere. The gathering included senior political leaders, bureaucrats, and media persons who shared congratulatory messages.
The SKICC lawns, where the reception was held, buzzed with lively conversation. Leaders from various parties mingled with each other, celebrating not just the swearing-in but also the democratic process that had brought Omar Abdullah back to power.
Omar Abdullah was seen greeting guests during the tea break, shaking hands with them.
