Former National Conference leader and brother of Farooq Abdullah, Mustafa Kamal, dies at 83

Mustafa Kamal, a prominent figure in the National Conference and the younger brother of former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Farooq Abdullah, passed away at the age of 83. His death marks the end of a life that spanned decades in both medicine and politics.

Kamal earned his MBBS degree from Sawai Man Singh Medical College in Jaipur in 1962. Following his graduation, he chose to serve the people of north Kashmir, working as a general physician in Tangmarg, a village near Gulmarg in the Baramulla district. His medical practice earned him respect among locals, who often praised his dedication to health care in a remote and challenging region.

Before entering active politics, Kamal built a reputation as a reliable doctor, balancing his medical duties with growing interest in public service. He later joined the National Conference, the party his brother helped found, and contributed to its organizational work at the district level. Though details of his political tenure were not extensively documented, his association with the party placed him among the influential leaders shaping the region’s governance.

Kamal’s dual career as a physician and a politician reflected a commitment to service that resonated with many in Kashmir. His medical background gave him credibility when addressing community health concerns, while his political involvement helped bridge gaps between the administration and the populace. Over the years, he participated in various party activities, contributed to local decision‑making processes, and remained a familiar face at public gatherings.

The news of his death was met with condolences from family members and party colleagues. While the exact circumstances surrounding his passing have not been disclosed, his legacy endures through the records of his service, both as a healer and a public representative. Kamal’s life illustrates how individuals can impact their communities through diverse avenues, leaving a lasting imprint on the social fabric of the region.

As tributes pour in, observers note that Kamal’s journey from a medical graduate in the early 1960s to a respected political figure underscores the evolving nature of public service in Kashmir. His brother, Farooq Abdullah, expressed sorrow over the loss, reflecting the close familial and political ties that have long characterized the National Conference.

Mustafa Kamal’s passing at 83 concludes a chapter of Kashmir’s recent history, marked by dedicated service in both health care and politics. His contributions, though documented in modest terms, remain a testament to the quiet yet significant roles individuals play in shaping regional narratives.

Source: Hindustan Times