PDP, NC positive reactions to J&K polls signal shift in stand

Srinagar: EC’s announcement to hold assembly elections in J&K after a decade-long gap has sparked optimism, with parties such as Mehbooba Mufti’s People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and Farooq Abdullah’s National Conference (NC) showing signs of a potential shift in their stand on participating in the electoral process.Until recently, both former CM Mehbooba and NC’s Omar Abdullah had maintained firm positions, stating they would not participate in any elections until J&K’s statehood, stripped after the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019, was restored. However, EC's announcement of elections in three phases from Sept 18 to Oct 1 appears to have altered the political landscape. PDP insiders suggested that Mehbooba is also likely to reconsider her decision to stay away from the elections, as pressure mounts from her party cadre urging her to participate. For his part, NC president Farooq Abdullah asked the party cadre to gear up for the polls, emphasising the need to strengthen its grassroots base. “We are committed to overall development of J&K,” he said Saturday in Jammu, while welcoming J&K BJP’s OBC wing general secretary and others into the NC fold. His son Omar had posted an image of his inked index finger on X, captioned: “The indelible ink mark from the recent elections hasn’t gone & we are back in election mode. Bring it on! We are ready!” Speaking to the media, Omar acknowledged the immense pressure from within his party to join the electoral race, citing concerns about the health of his father Farooq, who continues to lead NC despite advancing age and health challenges. “If I choose not to contest the assembly elections, there is a concern that he might be compelled to contest,” he said.Despite the presence of over 40 political parties in J&K, including Ghulam Nabi Azad’s Democratic Progressive Azad Party (DPAP), many of these parties lack the organisational strength and visibility of PDP and NC, making the upcoming elections a critical battleground for the region’s dominant players.During the recent Lok Sabha polls, BJP had asked Kashmiris to vote for any candidate other than the ‘dynastic troika’ of NC, PDP and Congress. However, the results were surprising. (inputs from Sanjay Khajuria in Jammu)

PDP, NC positive reactions to J&K polls signal shift in stand

The Election Commission's announcement of assembly elections in J&K after a decade has shifted the stance of key political parties PDP and NC. Despite prior commitments to abstain until statehood was restored, leaders like Mehbooba Mufti and Omar Abdullah are reconsidering participation, indicating a significant political change in the region.

J&K assembly polls: Farooq Abdullah to lead National Conference

Farooq Abdullah led the National Conference in the Jammu and Kashmir assembly elections starting September 18. He expressed gratitude for the Election Commission's schedule, noting the earlier speculated dates. Farooq stated the party is debating whether to contest independently. The elections are set in three phases, with results on October 4.

NC brass urges Omar Abdullah to reconsider decision not to fight J&K polls

Senior National Conference leaders urged Omar Abdullah to reconsider his decision against contesting assembly polls until Jammu & Kashmir regains statehood. They emphasized that his leadership and commitment have greatly influenced the party. Omar had stated he would not enter a UT assembly but would lead the campaign for statehood restoration.