NEW DELHI, Aug 25: Union Minister of State (MoS) BL Verma has criticised the National Conference and Congress alliance in Jammu and Kashmir (J-K) ahead of the upcoming assembly polls on September 18, describing it as “mismatched” and formed out of “political and personal interests.”
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Verma said that the alliance partners have conflicting ideas and policies, making the alliance purely opportunistic.
“Whatever alliance has been made or is being made between the INDI alliance is mismatched. Their ideas and policies do not align with each other; such agreements are made due to political and personal interests,” Verma said.
He further praised the Centre, highlighting that people have participated in the Lok Sabha elections because of the atmosphere created by the government.
“The atmosphere created by the central government in Jammu and Kashmir, and the work done to strengthen the democratic system, has led to enthusiastic participation in the Lok Sabha elections. Rahul Gandhi should clarify his stance on Article 370,” Verma added.
In their election manifesto, the PDP promised efforts to restore Articles 370 and 35A and diplomatic initiatives between India and Pakistan and ensure the dignified return of Kashmiri Pandits to the valley.
According to the manifesto, the PDP “is resolute in its pursuit of restoring the constitutional guarantees that were unjustly scrapped and is committed to restoring Jammu & Kashmir to its original status, ensuring that the voices of its people are heard and their rights are safeguarded.”
The party also promised to advocate “diplomatic initiatives between India and Pakistan, emphasising conflict resolution, confidence-building measures, and regional cooperation” and the establishment of “full connectivity across the LoC for trade and social exchange.”
The polling in Jammu and Kashmir will be held in three phases on September 18, 25, and October 1, as per the Election Commission of India. The counting of the votes will take place on October 4.
These are the first assembly elections to be held in Kashmir after the abrogation of Article 370. (Agencies)
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