Srinagar, Dec 22: The National Conference (NC) categorically refuted claims of joining the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) and dismissed a media report suggesting the same as “baseless and malicious.”
Addressing the allegations, NC Chief Spokesperson Tanvir Sadiq criticized the report, calling it “a blatant lie” aimed at misleading the people of Jammu and Kashmir. “This news being peddled by certain so-called journalists is nothing but a deliberate attempt to distort facts and create confusion among the public,” Sadiq said in a strongly worded statement.
The controversy stems from a newspaper article claiming that the National Conference, currently the ruling party in Jammu and Kashmir, was negotiating a return to the NDA in exchange for the restoration of the Union Territory’s statehood.
Sadiq vehemently rejected the claim, challenging the credibility of the report and its author. “It is disgraceful and irresponsible to circulate such baseless rumours. I challenge the individual behind this fabrication to name the alleged ‘top BJP leadership’ that Omar Abdullah is accused of meeting or issue an immediate public apology,” he posted on X.
He clarified that NC Vice President Omar Abdullah’s recent meeting with Union Home Minister Amit Shah in New Delhi was conducted transparently and in full public view. “For the record, the meeting with the Home Minister in North Block was no secret. Media personnel were present, and the purpose was openly discussed. If this so-called journalist insists otherwise, let them provide evidence or admit their lies,” he stated.
Sadiq further warned that the NC would not tolerate such deceptive narratives, hinting at legal action if the publication did not retract the report and issue a public apology. “If this fabricated story is not withdrawn immediately, accompanied by an unequivocal apology, we reserve the right to pursue legal action against those responsible for tarnishing the National Conference’s reputation and misleading the public,” he asserted.
The NC spokesperson also underscored the party’s unwavering stance on protecting the interests of Jammu and Kashmir, emphasizing that such rumors would not divert them from their mission. “The National Conference remains committed to its principles and the people of Jammu and Kashmir. These tactics aimed at sowing distrust and confusion will fail miserably,” he added.
This sharp rebuttal from the National Conference highlights the party’s firm stance against rumors and its insistence on transparency and accountability in public discourse.