At a hurriedly called press conference here immediately after the arrival of President Pranab Mukherjee on a three-day visit to the Valley, Omar termed the attacks on 'panchs' and 'sarpanchs' as an act of cowardice and dared them to think of attacking him.
"These cowards are targeting innocent people who cannot retaliate. If they have guts, let them target me. They are scared because if they do any such thing, they will be given a befitting reply," Omar said.
Without making any direct reference to the media, Omar said while the killing of panchs and sarpanchs was an unfortunate incident which calls for unequivocal condemnation, some people were projecting these incidents as if the law and order machinery had failed.
While assuring that government will ensure the safety of every person in the state, the Chief Minister said he would be taking a review meeting on October one during which a comprehensive security plan will be chalked out.
He also said the state government had received only 50 resignation of sarpanchs and panchs so far, which have not been accepted. "Even if vacancies through resignations arise, I will ensure that the byelections are held at the earliest."
He said the government will not be cowed down by the acts of cowardice of militants and will go ahead with the block elections and complete the process by first week of November. MORE