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The upcoming Jammu and Kashmir assembly elections are shaping up to be a complex and consequential affair. The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), led by Mehbooba Mufti, has made a significant announcement, declaring its support for the Congress-National Conference (NC) alliance, but only on the condition that the coalition embraces the PDP's agenda. This statement comes against the backdrop of the PDP's previous alliance with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), which ended amidst a politically charged environment surrounding the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019.
Mehbooba Mufti's declaration highlights the intricate political landscape of Jammu and Kashmir. While the PDP has traditionally aligned with the Congress and the NC, its recent history with the BJP complicates the equation. The PDP's willingness to support the Congress-NC alliance, contingent upon the adoption of its agenda, underscores the party's commitment to its core values and its vision for the future of Jammu and Kashmir. The PDP's agenda, as outlined in its manifesto, revolves around the restoration of statehood, the pursuit of diplomatic efforts between India and Pakistan, and the establishment of full connectivity across the Line of Control (LoC). These objectives reflect the PDP's desire to address the long-standing issues of political autonomy, regional security, and economic development.
Mehbooba Mufti's emphatic rejection of any post-poll alliance with the BJP further reinforces the PDP's stance. The party's previous experience with the BJP, characterized by the revocation of Article 370 and the subsequent political turmoil, has left a lasting impact. The PDP's decision to side with the Congress-NC alliance, albeit with conditions, signifies a shift in its political strategy. It suggests that the PDP sees a better opportunity to achieve its goals by aligning itself with a coalition that shares its commitment to resolving the Kashmir issue and restoring the dignity of the people of Jammu and Kashmir. The upcoming elections will be a crucial test for all political parties involved, with the outcome shaping the future of Jammu and Kashmir and its relationship with the Indian government.
Source: J-K Elections: PDP rules out BJP alliance, Mufti says ready to back Cong-NC if they adopt agenda