National Conference chief Farooq Abdullah on Saturday withdrew his name for consideration as the joint opposition candidate for the presidential polls, saying that he would like to contribute in navigating Jammu and Kashmir which is “passing through a critical juncture”.

In a statement issued to a local news agency, Kashmir News Observer (KNO), the NC chief said that he felt honored for being proposed as a possible joint opposition candidate for the office of President of India.

Abdullah said he held discussions with friends and family after the offer. “I believe that Jammu and Kashmir is passing through a critical juncture and my efforts are required to help navigate these uncertain times. I have a lot more active politics ahead of me and look forward to making a positive contribution to the service of J-K and the country” he said.

Conveying his gratitude to Mamata Banerjee and all the senior leaders who offered their support, the former chief minister of J-K further said that he would like to respectfully withdraw his name from consideration and would be supporting the joint opposition consensus candidate—(KNO)