Srinagar/Jammu, 22-08-2024 : In a significant political maneuver leading up to the forthcoming Assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir, the National Conference (NC) and the Congress Party have formed a comprehensive alliance for all 90 Assembly constituencies. The alliance was officially announced by National Conference president Farooq Abdullah after a pivotal meeting with Congress leaders, including Rahul Gandhi, Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha, and Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, held at Abdullah’s residence.
Addressing the media, Farooq Abdullah expressed confidence in the alliance, stating that the discussions had been positive and held in a cordial environment. He confirmed that the alliance would be formalized by evening, encompassing all 90 seats in Jammu and Kashmir. Abdullah also emphasized the inclusion of CPI(M) leader Mohammad Yousuf Tarigami in the alliance, expressing hope that the people would support this coalition, which he believes is crucial for securing a strong majority and improving the lives of the people in the region.
When questioned about Rahul Gandhi’s earlier commitment to prioritizing the restoration of full Statehood to Jammu and Kashmir, Abdullah reiterated the importance of Statehood. He emphasized that the restoration of full Statehood with all its powers remains a crucial objective for the alliance, particularly in light of the challenges the region has faced since the revocation of Article 370. Abdullah stressed that the alliance stands united with the broader INDIA Bloc in this endeavor.
Rahul Gandhi, speaking at a workers’ meeting in Srinagar, confirmed the alliance with the National Conference, but reassured his party members that the alliance would not compromise the interests and respect of Congress workers and leaders. Similarly, during a separate gathering in Jammu, Gandhi reiterated that while the alliance with the National Conference was progressing, the aspirations and interests of Congress workers would be safeguarded.
The announcement of this pre-poll alliance has also garnered support from CPI(M) leader Mohammad Yousuf Tarigami, who described the alliance as a necessary and timely development given the current political situation in Jammu and Kashmir. He pointed out the challenges faced by the region following the abrogation of Article 370 and the bifurcation of the State into Union Territories, highlighting the alliance’s importance in addressing these issues.
A crucial meeting of alliance leaders took place at a local hotel, where they discussed seat-sharing arrangements for the upcoming elections. A senior leader disclosed that the seat distribution for the first phase of the elections would be announced soon, with Congress expected to contest 3-4 seats, CPI(M) likely to contest one seat in South Kashmir, and the remaining seats going to the National Conference.
This alliance between the National Conference and Congress, with the support of CPI(M), marks a major step in the political landscape of Jammu and Kashmir as the region prepares for its Assembly elections.