Farooq Abdullah Reaches Out to Mehbooba Mufti for Rajya Sabha Support
In a key political move ahead of the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly session, National Conference (NC) chief Dr. Farooq Abdullah contacted Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) leader Mehbooba Mufti to seek support for the upcoming Rajya Sabha elections. The development highlights shifting alliances in J-K as parties reposition themselves before crucial polls.
Why the Phone Call Matters
Sources confirm that Abdullah spoke with Mufti late Tuesday, discussing PDP’s potential backing for an NC candidate in the Rajya Sabha polls. The seat, vacated after BJP’s Shamsher Singh Manhas retired, has become a battleground for regional parties aiming to strengthen their parliamentary presence.
The NC, with 47 MLAs in the dissolved 90-member Assembly, needs PDP’s 21 legislators to secure a majority. A united front could block the BJP, which holds 25 seats and is lobbying smaller parties.
Mehbooba Mufti’s Tough Decision
While the PDP hasn’t committed yet, insiders say Mufti is evaluating the risks. Supporting the NC could signal opposition unity but might alienate PDP’s base, given their historic rivalry. A party leader anonymously stated:
“Backing NC may strengthen regional voices but could blur our independent stance.”
BJP’s Counter-Strategy
The BJP is wooing smaller factions like the Jammu and Kashmir Apni Party (JKAP) and independents. JKAP chief Altaf Bukhari remains non-committal, saying his group will decide “in J-K’s interest.” Analysts suggest BJP could still sway the race if the PDP stays neutral.
NC-PDP: From Rivals to Allies?
Longtime competitors, the NC and PDP have recently aligned in opposing Article 370’s revocation. Abdullah’s outreach hints at a tactical alliance, potentially forming a broader anti-BJP front in J-K.
What’s at Stake?
The PDP’s decision could reshape J-K’s politics ahead of expected Assembly elections. Backing the NC may bolster opposition unity, while abstaining could benefit the BJP. The Rajya Sabha vote will test these emerging dynamics.
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