Post-370 Era Politics: Farooq Abdullah’s National Conference Launches Election Board Amidst Anticipation for LS and Assembly Polls in J&K
Jammu, 08-01-2024 : National Conference president Farooq Abdullah announced on Monday that the party is establishing an election board to determine candidates for the upcoming Lok Sabha and Assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir. Speaking at a public meeting on the outskirts of Jammu, Abdullah assured that the people of the union territory would be consulted before finalizing the candidate names. With the general elections scheduled for April-May and the Supreme Court upholding the abrogation of Article 370, directing assembly elections by September 30, 2024, the political landscape is charged with anticipation.
“We have decided to set up an election board because the Lok Sabha and Assembly elections are around the corner to decide the candidates but not without taking you into confidence,” emphasized Abdullah at the gathering in Baran village, Bhalwal block. He urged the public to actively participate in the decision-making process, stating, “You have to decide who is going to serve you and address your issues, and we need your support.”
Abdullah revealed that constituency incharges have been appointed across Kashmir, and a similar arrangement would be completed in Jammu by January 20. This move is intended to facilitate direct communication between the people and their representatives, allowing concerns and issues to be raised effectively.
In a veiled reference to the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Abdullah countered accusations of sympathizing with Pakistan, highlighting the sacrifices made by National Conference members. He reminisced about a terrorist attack on the Jammu and Kashmir assembly in 2001, asserting the party’s unwavering commitment to India.
The former chief minister also delved into historical aspects, tracing the origins of Jammu and Kashmir’s accession to India. Abdullah emphasized that the state’s inclusion in India was facilitated by the support of National Conference founder Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah during Maharaja Hari Singh’s reign.
Abdullah criticized certain political parties for misleading the public on issues like legislation related to the return of those who had gone to Pakistan, emphasizing that such misinformation sowed seeds of hatred. He also questioned the appointment of outsiders in key positions in the police and universities in Jammu and Kashmir.
Taking a swipe at the administration, Abdullah lamented the disruption of the darbar move and criticized the decision to supply electricity to Rajasthan from the Rattle Power Project for 40 years, while the people of Jammu and Kashmir faced electricity shortages.
As political developments unfold in the region, Abdullah’s announcements and criticisms set the stage for a dynamic and charged political landscape in Jammu and Kashmir.
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