Srinagar, 08-10-2024: Mehbooba Mufti, the president of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and former Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, expressed her congratulations to the National Conference-Congress alliance on their electoral success in the recently concluded assembly elections. Speaking at a press conference, Mufti highlighted the significance of the electoral results, asserting that the people of Jammu and Kashmir have delivered a decisive mandate that eliminates any opportunity for political parties to undermine the democratic process.
Mufti stated, “Since the people have given a clear mandate, there is no chance for parties to mess around.” She emphasized that a hung assembly could have opened avenues for manipulation and “dirty tricks” to thwart the will of the electorate. Her remarks underscore her belief in the integrity of the election process, especially in light of previous concerns about political maneuvering in the region.
In the assembly elections, the Election Commission of India announced that the National Conference secured 42 seats, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) won 29, the Congress captured 6 seats, and the PDP managed to secure just 3. Mufti congratulated the leadership of both the National Conference and Congress, acknowledging their impressive performance. She remarked, “I also want to congratulate the people of Jammu and Kashmir for voting for a stable government. The situation here had been dire since August 5, 2019, and the people faced numerous challenges. The formation of a stable government is essential for addressing these issues.”
Mufti extended her gratitude to the PDP’s leaders and workers for their relentless efforts during the election campaign, despite the difficulties they encountered. “I appeal to them not to give up,” she urged, reinforcing the importance of perseverance within the party ranks.
Reflecting on her own electoral experience, Iltija Mehbooba Mufti, a PDP candidate and Mehbooba Mufti’s daughter, acknowledged her defeat and expressed gratitude for the support she received during her campaign in Bijbehara. “I accept the verdict of the people. The love and affection I received will always remain with me,” she stated, thanking her party’s workers for their dedication.
The assembly elections for the 90 seats in Jammu and Kashmir were conducted in three phases, occurring on September 18, September 26, and October 1. The results mark a pivotal moment in the region’s political landscape, with implications for governance and stability in the aftermath of significant political changes.