Former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Mukti after eight months of detention

(PTI) Srinagar, Ta. March 24, 2020, Tuesday

Former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister and National Conference leader Omar Abdullah has been released today after eight months of detention. He was detained under the Public Safety Act (PSA).

His supporters and media were dressed in karmic masks, waiting for his release outside his home. The leader of the National Conference turns 50 on March 10. Omar Abdullah was detained on August 5 after Article 370 of the special status of Jammu and Kashmir was removed.

Home Secretary Shalin Kabara ordered the removal of the Public Safety Act imposed on Omar Abdullah. It is worth mentioning that Omar Abdullah was detained under his PSA just hours before the six-month detention ended on February 5.

The order issued today stated that they should be released from immediate effect. Omar Abdullah's father Farooq Abdullah was also released on March 13 after 221 days of detention. However, PDP leader and former Prime Minister Mehbooba Mufti has also been detained.

It may be recalled that Omar Abdullah's release came at a time when the Supreme Court had told the Central Government a few days ago that he would release him immediately and if he did not release him, the court would hold a hearing on the application of his sister Sara Pilot. The Supreme Court had given the central government a week to answer the matter.