SNS KASHMIR.
Ishtiyaq Ahmad
SRINAGAR, OCTOBER 14 :
In an attempt to end speculations of his possibly joining the People’s Conference, National conference senior leader and former finance Minister Abdul Rahim Rather vehemently denied the reports and termed the social media rumors baseless.
The clarifying statement came after speculations were rife on social media platforms that Rather is joining the PC.
“These reports are totally baseless and wrong. I am not joining PC or any other party,” he told news agency KINS over phone.
Rather, has represented Charar-e-Sharief constituency for a record 36 years in the erstwhile state Assembly.
He had won six consecutive assembly elections from Charar-e-Sharief constituency in central Kashmir Budgam district.
Born at Badipora village of Chadoora, Rather was first elected to the assembly from the constituency in 1977.
A law graduate, Rather was a practicing lawyer from 1971 to 1982 and held important portfolios in the National Conference governments including the post of Speaker.
He also served as Finance Minister several times besides holding Agriculture, Rural development, Law and parliamentary affairs portfolios.(KINS)