PDP to contest on all Lok Sabha seats in Kashmir

SRINAGAR: Mehbooba Mufti, the President of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), declared on Wednesday that the party is set to compete for all Lok Sabha seats in Kashmir. She revealed that the final candidate list will be unveiled in the upcoming days.

Addressing a press conference in Srinagar, Mehbooba reaffirmed PDP’s determination to contest from every Lok Sabha constituency in Kashmir. She expressed disappointment over remarks made by NC Vice President and former Chief Minister Omar Abdullah regarding PDP, indicating that the party’s grassroots presence is negligible and suggesting it might not field candidates in Kashmir.

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FLASH: Significant rupture in INDIA alliance and PAGD in Jammu & Kashmir. #MehboobaMufti declares that PDP will compete in #LokSabhaElections2024 for all #Kashmir seats. NC has already resolved to compete on all seats. #NC Against #PDP Against #Congress and other factions will… pic.twitter.com/KG7LuSdW99

— The New Indian (@TheNewIndian_in) April 3, 2024

“In light of the circumstances post-August 5, 2019, there was an imperative to stand united. Everyone has felt sidelined, and freedom of expression has been stifled. PDP has borne the brunt of this situation. So, under such circumstances, what options are available to us?” Mehbooba remarked.

Expressing dissatisfaction with Omar Abdullah’s comments, Mehbooba asserted, “Had Omar Abdullah consulted us, PDP would have deliberated over the situation for the greater good of Kashmir. However, he decided without our input.”

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She voiced concern about the impact of the former Chief Minister’s statements on PDP workers. “Omar Abdullah’s remarks have deeply affected PDP workers. Despite PDP having held power twice recently, Omar Abdullah still claims PDP is irrelevant,” she stated.

Mehbooba questioned Dr. Farooq Abdullah’s role in the alliance, asserting, “When leadership responsibilities are assigned, justice should be served to all. However, they have left no room for us. We hoped NC would prioritize Kashmir’s interests this time, but they disappointed us. Omar Abdullah’s press conference was regrettable, as he questioned our credibility. This was unfair to our party workers, who are navigating through challenging times.”