 |
|
The National Conference (NC), a major political force in Jammu and Kashmir, has signaled its openness to forming a post-poll alliance with the People's Democratic Party (PDP) in order to prevent the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) from assuming power after the upcoming 2024 Assembly elections. This strategic move, revealed by NC leader and former Chief Minister Farooq Abdullah, reflects the complex political landscape in the region and the potential for a hung assembly.
While acknowledging their rivalry during elections, Mr. Abdullah emphasized the shared objective of improving the lives of Jammu and Kashmir's residents. He expressed his willingness to work with the PDP, noting that the Congress party, a key ally within the INDIA bloc, would likely share his view. However, Mr. Abdullah categorically ruled out the possibility of him becoming Chief Minister if the alliance were to win. He stated that he had already served his time and his primary focus was on ensuring a stable and effective government for the region. He also indicated an openness to seeking support from independent lawmakers, but stressed that he would not be seeking their endorsement in a desperate or submissive manner.
The PDP, although not part of the INDIA bloc due to an inability to reach a seat-sharing agreement, finds itself in a potential kingmaker position following the release of exit polls. These polls suggest a hung assembly, with the NC-Congress alliance securing the most seats but falling short of a majority. The PDP, projected to win between four and 12 seats, could hold the balance of power, potentially influencing the formation of a government by either the NC-Congress or the BJP.
Zuhaib Yusuf Mir, the PDP's candidate for the Lal Chowk seat in Srinagar, echoed the party's willingness to work with the NC and Congress to prevent the BJP from gaining control. He emphasized the PDP's commitment to safeguarding the identity of Kashmir and stated their readiness to collaborate to create a secular government. However, not all party members appear to share this sentiment. Mehbooba Mufti, the PDP's leader, has taken a cautious approach, stating that any talk of an alliance before the results are declared is premature. Similarly, Omar Abdullah, the son of Farooq Abdullah and a senior leader within the NC, urged caution and refrained from speculating about post-poll arrangements.
The upcoming results of the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly elections are likely to determine the political landscape of the region for the next five years. The potential for a hung assembly and the role of the PDP as a kingmaker add further complexity to the situation. The NC's willingness to forge an alliance with the PDP to keep the BJP out of power underscores the strategic considerations at play and the need to navigate complex relationships in pursuit of political goals.
Source: "Why Not?" Farooq Abdullah On Post-Poll Alliance After J&K Poll, Rival Says...