Srinagar: Ahead of the Lok Sabha polls, the political landscape in Jammu and Kashmir has taken a significant turn as the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), led by Mehbooba Mufti, has announced its decision to contest the three Lok Sabha seats in the Kashmir Valley independently.
This move comes in response to the National Conference's declaration that it will contest all three seats in Kashmir, leaving no room for a coalition arrangement between the two parties.
Mian Altaf was named as the National Conference candidate for the Anantnag-Rajouri seat.
Mehbooba Mufti criticized the National Conference's unilateral decision, particularly targeting its leader Omar Abdullah. She expressed disappointment over the lack of consultation and cooperation, stating, "The National Conference and Omar Abdullah didn't leave any option for us."
Mufti emphasized the importance of unity among political parties in Jammu and Kashmir but lamented the National Conference's approach. She highlighted that had the National Conference consulted with the PDP beforehand, her party might have opted not to field candidates in the interest of Kashmir.
However, she expressed dismay over the National Conference's decision, which she believed disregarded the concerns of her party and its workers. Mufti underscored the need for inclusive decision-making and mutual respect among alliance partners.
Omar Abdullah dismissed suggestions of discord between the National Conference and PDP, blaming the media for misrepresenting the situation. Abdullah emphasized the National Conference's decision-making process, indicating that it was based on electoral performance.
The PDP's decision to contest independently in Kashmir adds complexity to the political landscape, particularly for the Congress, which must now choose between supporting the PDP or the National Conference. Additionally, it provides fodder for the BJP's campaign against the INDIA alliance, highlighting internal disagreements within the coalition in various states across the country.