Omar Abdullah snubs alliance with PDP; Former MLA Javid Baig joins NC

SRINAGAR — Omar Abdullah, the vice president of the National Conference (NC), rebuked the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) today, firmly rejecting any potential alliance with them for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. Abdullah criticized the PDP’s credibility, citing their past alliance with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in the state and accused them of betraying the people’s trust.

Abdullah affirmed that the NC would independently contest all three Lok Sabha constituencies in the Kashmir valley, expressing confidence in securing a significant victory. His statement came amidst growing tensions between the two parties, with Abdullah questioning the PDP’s relevance and involvement in South Kashmir despite their diminished standing in previous elections.

In another development, former MLA Javid Hussain Baig, nephew of ex-deputy chief minister Muzaffar Hussain Baig, joined the National Conference. Baig, formerly associated with the People’s Democratic Party, was recently expelled from the Apni Party. His expulsion followed engagement with foreign envoys during their visit to Kashmir, organized by the Central government after the abrogation of Article 370.

Baig’s decision to join the NC was announced in the presence of party vice president Omar Abdullah and other senior leaders. Despite facing defeat in the 2020 district development council elections, Baig’s move signals a significant shift in the political landscape of the region.

The Lok Sabha elections in Jammu and Kashmir are slated to be held in April-May 2024, coinciding with the rest of the country.