Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Wednesday released “Durr-e-Naayaab,” a biography of the late Wali Mohammad Itoo, authored by his daughter and Minister Sakina Itoo, at an impressive function in Srinagar.

The book chronicles the life and legacy of the former Minister and Speaker of the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly, who was assassinated on March 18, 1994, in Jammu.
Paying rich tributes, Omar Abdullah described Late Itoo as “a brave, capable, honest, and hardworking leader who sacrificed his life for the people of Jammu and Kashmir.” The Chief Minister recalled his brief interaction with the late leader and said, “His personality, work ethic, and people’s affection are evident from the emotions witnessed here today.”
Reflecting on the turbulent 1990s, Omar said that despite the challenges of militancy, Wali Mohammad Itoo never abandoned his duty. “Even in exile, he continued helping people as a lawyer, using his knowledge to serve those in distress,” he added.
The Chief Minister also praised Sakina Itoo for continuing her father’s mission of public service. “A brave father gave a brave daughter to this community. If Itoo Sahib were alive today, he would be proud of Sakina Ji, whose work in Noorabad, Kulgam, and across J&K stands as a living tribute to his ideals,” he said.
Omar Abdullah lauded Sakina Itoo’s literary effort, noting, “I always knew Sakina Ji as a dedicated MLA and a capable minister, but today I discovered another facet — that of a writer. Through this book, she has ensured that future generations remember a leader who lived and died for his people.”
He extended congratulations on behalf of Dr. Farooq Abdullah, appreciating Sakina Itoo’s effort to preserve her father’s legacy for posterity.
The event was attended by Speaker Abdul Rahim Rather, Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Kumar Choudhary, Advisor Nasir Aslam Wani, Ali Mohammad Sagar, Mubarak Gul, M. Yousuf Tarigami, Rattan Lal Gupta, and several other dignitaries, MLAs, and citizens from Kulgam, Noorabad, and D.H. Pora.
A short film showcasing the life and contributions of Late Wali Mohammad Itoo was also screened, evoking emotional memories of a leader remembered for his courage, compassion, and service to the people.