SRINAGAR: The Jammu & Kashmir National Conference (JKNC) and Indian National Congress (INC) have forged a pre-election coalition for the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly polls, agreeing on a shared seat arrangement for 90 constituencies.
Out of the 90 seats, JKNC will contest 51, while INC will compete in 32. A “friendly contest” has been planned for 5 seats. Additionally, one seat each has been allocated to the Communist Party of India (Marxist) [CPI(M)] and the Panthers Party.
In the five constituencies where JKNC and INC could not reach an agreement—Sopore, Banihal, Bhaderwah, Doda, and Nagrota—both parties will field their candidates, resulting in a “friendly contest.”
JKNC President Dr Farooq Abdullah stated, “The discussions between the Congress and the National Conference have been successful. We have decided to contest the upcoming assembly elections together, with full cooperation and coordination.”
INC General Secretary KC Venugopal remarked, “We aim to protect Kashmir. The BJP is attempting to undermine the essence of Jammu and Kashmir, which is why we have united to form a government that is in harmony with the people.”
J&K Pradesh Congress Committee (PCC) President Tariq Hameed Karra added, “We have concluded our discussions in a very positive environment. The Congress and National Conference will contest the elections jointly. Our primary goal is to safeguard the spirit of Jammu and Kashmir. We will begin issuing mandates immediately, and we are confident of forming a government that truly serves the people.”