The passing of Dr. Sheikh Mustafa Kamal on 14 July 2026 marks the end of an important chapter in the political history of Jammu and Kashmir. As the younger son of Sher-e-Kashmir Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah, he inherited a distinguished political legacy, yet his own identity was shaped not merely by lineage but by decades of dedicated public service, organisational leadership, and unwavering commitment to the ideals of the Jammu and Kashmir National Conference (NC). Serving as the party’s Additional General Secretary until his last days, he remained one of its most steadfast ideological voices.

Over several decades, Dr. Kamal occupied a unique position within the National Conference. He served as a minister in successive NC-led governments and played a significant role in strengthening the party organisation during periods of political stability as well as constitutional uncertainty. While many leaders adapted their political language to changing circumstances, Dr. Kamal remained remarkably consistent in defending the foundational principles that had shaped the National Conference since its inception.

He regarded the Naya Kashmir Manifesto not merely as a historical document but as a continuing vision of democratic governance, social justice, secularism, and inclusive development. He firmly believed that the dignity and welfare of the people of Jammu and Kashmir could best be secured through representative institutions, constitutional safeguards, and responsive governance. Throughout his public life, he remained deeply........

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