Politics

Politics

Engineer Rashid Seeks Interim Bail to Take Oath as MP After Winning Baramulla Seat

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Rashid Sheikh, widely known as Engineer Rashid, has been elected as a Member of Parliament (MP) from Baramulla in Kashmir. He has approached the Patiala House court in Delhi seeking interim bail to take his oath as an MP.

Rashid has been incarcerated in Tihar Jail since August 9, 2019, facing charges of alleged terror financing in a case filed by the National Investigation Agency (NIA).

Engineer Rashid won the Baramulla Lok Sabha seat, defeating former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah by a margin of 204,142 votes.

Additional Sessions Judge Chander Jit Singh has requested a response from the NIA regarding this case, with the hearing scheduled for tomorrow.

Rashid’s lawyer, Advocate Vikhyat Oberoi, informed ANI that an application for interim bail and alternative custody parole was filed on Wednesday to enable Rashid to take his oath and fulfill other parliamentary duties.

The court took up the matter and listed it for a response from the NIA on June 6, Oberoi stated. However, on Thursday, the NIA did not provide a reply, so the court rescheduled the matter for Friday for the NIA to respond.

Oberoi also mentioned that Engineer Rashid is a two-time MLA and now needs to take his oath as an MP following his recent election victory. The date for the oath-taking ceremony has not yet been announced.

In the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, Engineer Rashid ran as an independent candidate for the Baramulla seat, securing victory over Omar Abdullah by a margin of 204,142 votes, garnering a total of 472,481 votes.

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Politics

Er. Rashid Thanks Voters After Historic Win, AIP Focuses on Securing His Release

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A day after unseating political figures including Omar Abdullah and Sajad Gani Lone, Awami Ittehad Party (AIP) patron and newly elected MP Er. Rashid expressed his gratitude to the people for electing him from the Baramulla Lok Sabha constituency.

In a message shared through his counsel Vikhyat Oberoi on his official Facebook page, Er. Rashid thanked the people of J&K, stating, “This victory belongs to the people, not just me. I will continue to fight for the rights of J&K’s people democratically and be the voice of the voiceless. The margin of my victory underscores my innocence in the case against me.”

The AIP, which resonated with the public by advocating for the release of its party patron during an extensive campaign, now faces uncertainty regarding its future strategy amid the ongoing incarceration of Er. Rashid. The party’s primary focus is on securing his release to regroup and plan their next steps.

Despite the dilemma, rumors on social media have speculated about Er. Rashid aligning with either the INDI Bloc or NDA. However, AIP spokesperson Firdous Baba clarified to GNS that their immediate concern is the patron’s release, dismissing any alliance considerations as false.

“Our priority is to see Er. Sahab out of prison. We trust his wisdom to determine the best strategy once he is free,” Baba stated. He emphasized the party’s efforts to facilitate Er. Rashid’s release so he can serve and interact with the people.

Er. Rashid, who secured 472,481 votes, defeated Omar Abdullah by 204,142 votes and surpassed Sajad Gani Lone, who garnered 173,239 votes, by 299,242 votes in the election results announced on Tuesday.

Politics

2 former CMs lose NC Dominate Kashmir in Parliamentary Elections

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The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) secured victories in both parliamentary seats in Jammu province, while the National Conference’s Aga Rahullah triumphed in the Srinagar parliamentary seat.Although official results for Baramulla and Anantnag-Rajouri were not announced by late evening, it was evident from the final counting rounds that Engineer Rashid was leading in Baramulla and the National Conference’s Mian Altaf in Anantnag-Rajouri.Notably, former chief ministers Omar Abdullah and Mehbooba Mufti suffered defeats in their respective Lok Sabha constituencies in Kashmir.

Kashmir Valley comprises three Lok Sabha constituencies. National Conference leaders Aga Ruhullah and Mian Altaf won the Srinagar (Central Kashmir) and Anantnag (South Kashmir) constituencies, respectively. Engineer Rashid, currently imprisoned, won the Baramulla (North Kashmir) constituency. This marked the first parliamentary contest for both Mian Altaf and Aga Ruhullah, while Engineer Rashid had previously run unsuccessfully in 2019.

Engineer Rashid defeated Omar Abdullah in Baramulla with a significant margin. In Anantnag, Mehbooba Mufti faced a significant defeat, despite the area being a traditional stronghold for her party, the PDP.

Following his defeat, Omar Abdullah acknowledged the outcome: “I think it’s time to accept the inevitable. Congratulations to Engineer Rashid for his victory in North Kashmir. I don’t believe his victory will hasten his release from prison nor will the people of North Kashmir get the representation they have a right to, but the voters have spoken, and in a democracy, that’s all that matters.”

Similarly, Mehbooba Mufti respected the people’s verdict: “I thank my PDP workers and leaders for their hard work and support despite all the odds. My deepest gratitude to the people who voted for me. Winning and losing is part of the game and won’t deter us from our path. Congratulations to Mian Altaf for his victory.”

Reflecting on past elections, in the 1989 parliamentary polls, National Conference’s PL Handoo won the Anantnag Lok Sabha seat. The 1991 polls were held nationwide but not in Kashmir due to the volatile situation, leading to deferred elections for these seats. In the 1996 elections, Janta Dal’s Muhammad Maqbool Dar won the constituency. Mufti Muhammad Sayeed secured the south Kashmir seat in 1998 on a Congress ticket, with about 28 percent voter turnout. In 1999, the National Conference’s Ali Muhammad Naik won the seat, with voter turnout below 20 percent. This election followed National Conference leader Saifuddin Soz’s defiance of the party whip against the BJP-led coalition government during a confidence motion, after which he joined Congress.

Meanwhile, the BJP maintained its dominance in Jammu, winning its third consecutive term. Of the five Lok Sabha seats in the union territory, BJP’s Jugal Kishore Sharma and Jitendra Singh, MoS PMO, retained their seats for the third term. The BJP did not announce candidates in Kashmir.

The Farooq Abdullah-led National Conference, part of the INDIA bloc, fielded candidates in three Valley seats, winning two. This was the first major election in the region after the abrogation of Article 370, which granted special status to Jammu and Kashmir.

Omar Abdullah, running from North Kashmir’s Baramulla seat, was defeated by jailed leader and two-time MLA Engineer Rashid, an independent candidate. With Rashid in jail, his sons Abrar and Asrar spearheaded his campaign, attracting large crowds in the bordering region. Baramulla was a closely watched seat, with People Conference president Sajad Lone also in the race. According to Election Commission of India data, Rashid was leading with over 200,000 votes. The Mehbooba Mufti-led PDP also fielded a candidate in Baramulla, but he did not emerge as a main challenger.

Though the PDP did not win any seats, it was part of the INDIA bloc. Mehbooba Mufti aimed to contest from Anantnag-Rajouri, but Omar Abdullah fielded tribal leader Mian Altaf, who won. Following the National Conference’s refusal to collaborate, the PDP fielded candidates in all three Valley seats and supported Congress candidates in Jammu.

The lone Lok Sabha seat in Ladakh was won by independent candidate Haji Hanifa from Kargil, with a margin of over 27,000 votes. In Ladakh, the BJP replaced incumbent MP Jamyang Tsering Namgyal with Tashi Gyalson.

Politics

Mirwaiz Umar Farooq Calls for Dialogue, Offers Two Steps Forward for Peaceful Resolution

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Mirwaiz Umar Farooq

Mirwaiz Umar Farooq stated on Friday that if New Delhi takes one step forward, he is ready to take two steps towards a peaceful resolution of issues. He made these remarks while speaking to the media at Jamia Masjid Srinagar after attending Friday congregational prayers.

Farooq expressed his frustration over being kept under house arrest without any legal notice. “It is unfortunate that the government keeps me under house arrest without serving any legal notice. I don’t understand why this continues to happen. I hope this policy ends, and I am allowed to move freely and share my views publicly,” he said.

He emphasized that the government’s belief that he would abandon his ethical stance on various issues is misguided. “If the government thinks I will leave my ethical stand on issues, they are wrong. I hope the government will realize the situation and take amicable steps accordingly,” Farooq added.

Farooq reiterated the Hurriyat Conference (M)’s longstanding support for dialogue, stressing the importance of talks to address and resolve outstanding issues. “The Hurriyat Conference has always supported dialogue and wants talks to initiate so that pending issues can be addressed and resolved. We have supported talks a lot, and despite suffering attacks, we have not changed our stance,” he said.

He expressed deep concern over the detention of youth and the complex verification process required for jobs and travel documents by the J&K government. “A significant number of youth are lodged in jails while the government has made the verification process very complicated. I hope the government rethinks this and makes the process easier,” he said.

Farooq concluded by emphasizing the desire for peace and the need for a realistic approach from the government. “If the government takes one step forward, we are ready to take two,” he stated. However, he made it clear that the Hurriyat Conference will not bow to the “iron fist” policy adopted by New Delhi and the J&K administration.

“We don’t want violence and bloodshed. We don’t want our youngsters filling jails and graves. It’s time to move forward. The government should abandon its muscle-power policy and embrace a realistic approach to resolving issues,” he concluded.

Politics

Ghulam Nabi Azad Drops Bombshell Revelation on Article 370 –  There was nothing left of the special status that merited removal

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Former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Ghulam Nabi Azad expressed his disappointment on Friday, stating that had the BJP consulted him prior to the abrogation of Article 370, he could have offered valuable guidance. Azad asserted that the removal of Article 370 has left nothing of the special status that warranted its removal.

Azad’s remarks came in an interview with a New Delhi-based newspaper, as reported by the news agency Kashmir News Observer (KNO). He highlighted that the original framework of Article 370 had already been diluted over time, with control over foreign affairs, defense, and currency already integrated into India by leaders like Nehru and Indira Gandhi. He suggested that only a few local rights remained, and consulting him could have provided better insights.

Responding to accusations of being soft on the BJP, Azad dismissed such claims, emphasizing his focus on development and advocating for a politics of unity over religion. He stressed the need for national unity, particularly in the face of external threats along the borders.

Reflecting on his tenure with the Congress, Azad expressed frustration with internal dynamics, citing resistance to instilling a strong work ethic. He criticized the lack of willingness to work among those appointed to key positions during his time, lamenting defeats despite his efforts to secure victories.

Azad’s departure from the Congress and establishment of a new party, the DPAP, was driven by what he described as internal conflict within the Congress and a lack of meaningful work ethic. He questioned the purpose of remaining in a party where such issues persisted.

Politics

Mehbooba Mufti Urges High Voter Turnout in Crucial Jammu and Kashmir Elections

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Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) President and candidate for the Anantnag-Rajouri Parliamentary segment, Mehbooba Mufti, addressed the media today after visiting her father’s grave at Dara Shukoh, Bijbehera. She described the ongoing elections in Jammu and Kashmir as a pivotal moment for the region’s residents to make their voices heard in parliament.

Mufti stressed the importance of dissenting against the disempowerment experienced since August 5, 2019. Accompanying her were Party Youth President Waheed ur Rehman Parra, former MP Fayaz Ahmad Mir, District President Adv Sheikh Javaid, Party Spokesperson Najmu Saqib, State Secretary Arif Laigaroo, Parvez Waffa, Aditya Gupta, Mohd Altaf, and many others.

Citing the significant voter turnout in the Srinagar and Baramulla parliamentary polls, Mufti highlighted the political maturity and foresight of the people of Jammu and Kashmir. She drew attention to the plight of thousands of Kashmiri youths imprisoned outside the region, whose parents struggle with legal challenges. “This election is about those youth – to get them freed,” she declared.

Mufti emphasized the necessity of high voter turnout, cautioning against efforts by the BJP and its allies to suppress participation. “The BJP-led administration and its operatives in Kashmir are trying hard to discourage voting because they know the votes will go to the PDP,” she said.

In response to questions, Mufti criticized the National Conference’s (NC) recent actions, accusing them of betrayal. She expressed disappointment in Dr. Farooq Abdullah, whom she had trusted, for undermining the Political Alliance for Gupkar Declaration (PAGD). “We nurtured the PAGD for four years, and NC dismantled it in one stroke. I hoped Farooq Abdullah would make decisions as the leader of the alliance, but he acted as NC President, prioritizing party politics over the greater cause,” Mufti remarked.

She urged the people of Anantnag and Rajouri to vote in large numbers, stating that their vote would stand against the 2019 decisions and send a clear message demanding the restoration of their rights.

Politics

President Aga Syed Hassan Reflects on the Legacy of Ibrahim Raesi and Mohammad Ali

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President of Anjuman Sharia Shian, Aga Syed Hassan, led a congregation in mourning the tragic loss of Ayatullah Aga Syed Ibrahim Raesi and Ayatullah Syed Mohammad Ali, along with others, in a recent helicopter crash.

Speaking to the mourners, Aga Syed Hassan expressed deep reverence and profound sadness, reflecting on the immense impact these revered leaders had on the Islamic community and beyond.

“In the wake of this tragic loss, we find ourselves grappling with a profound sense of emptiness,” he began. “Ayatullah Aga Syed Ibrahim Raesi and Ayatullah Syed Mohammad Ali were not merely leaders; they were beacons of wisdom, compassion, and unwavering devotion to the principles of Islam. Their guidance illuminated our path, their teachings enriched our souls, and their presence filled our hearts with hope and inspiration.”

Aga Syed Hassan highlighted the personal qualities that defined these esteemed individuals. “Ayatullah Aga Syed Ibrahim Raesi’s steadfast leadership and unyielding commitment to justice embodied the very essence of our faith. His unwavering resolve in the face of adversity served as a source of strength for us all. Similarly, Ayatullah Syed Mohammad Ali’s humility and compassion touched the lives of countless individuals. His dedication to fostering unity and understanding among diverse communities was unparalleled.”

In the midst of sorrow, he urged the congregation to find solace in the enduring legacy left by these extraordinary souls. “Though they may no longer walk among us, their teachings, their ideals, and their spirit will continue to guide us,” he proclaimed. “Let us honor their memory not only through our words but through our actions. Let us strive to emulate their example of selflessness, generosity, and unwavering faith.”

As the assembly bowed their heads in silent prayer, Aga Syed Hassan offered words of comfort and encouragement. “In this time of sorrow, let us draw strength from our shared bond as a community,” he said. “Let us come together to support one another, to uplift one another, and to carry forward the torch of hope that Ayatullah Aga Syed Ibrahim Raesi and Ayatullah Syed Mohammad Ali ignited within us.”

In closing, Aga Syed Hassan reiterated the magnitude of the loss. “The passing of Ayatullah Aga Syed Ibrahim Raesi and Ayatullah Syed Mohammad Ali is not just a loss for our community; it is a loss for humanity,” he declared. “But let us take comfort in the knowledge that their legacy will endure, inspiring future generations to strive for a world guided by love, compassion, and the timeless values of Islam.”

Politics

Jamat e Islami former Gen Secy casts vote Reveals Shocking Details About 1987 Election Rigging

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Ghulam Qadir Lone, former General Secretary and district president of the banned Jama’at-e-Islami (JeI) from Ananwan, Qaziabad, voiced his hope on Monday that the electoral irregularities of 1987 would not be repeated. Speaking to Rising Kashmir after casting his vote in Ananwan village, Lone reflected on the loss of faith in democracy due to the mass rigging in the 1987 elections.

Lone, who was a contestant in that election and lost by 700 votes to the NC’s candidate, expressed his desire for future elections in Kashmir to be free of rigging, with the results accurately reflecting the voters’ will.

When asked why he was confident about the absence of future rigging, Lone said he had no assurances but believed that things had changed. He noted that India had recognized the significant damage caused by past rigging and that young people were becoming more aware of these issues. He stressed that avoiding rigging was crucial for improving the situation.

Lone urged the youth to actively participate in the electoral process by registering to vote, emphasizing their vital role in shaping the future through democratic engagement. He also expressed his willingness to engage in elections if the current ban on certain political activities is lifted, stating, “If the ban is revoked, I will take part in elections.”

Reflecting on the 1987 election, Lone recounted how thousands of voters were prevented from voting after 1 PM due to rigging, which led to the opposition candidate’s victory. He reiterated his hope that such electoral fraud would not occur again, allowing for genuine representation of the people’s will.

News / Politics

J&K PC President Sajad Lone Raises Concerns Over Arrests and Harassment During Electoral Process

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sajad lone

J&K Peoples Conference President, Sajad Gani Lone, expressed apprehension regarding the arrests and harassment of workers on alleged OGW (Overground Worker) grounds and other arbitrary pretexts. He appealed to both the Election Commission and the administration to uphold principles of fairness and impartiality in the electoral process, urging them not to selectively target parties and their workers.

Lone echoed the sentiments voiced by Mr. Altaf Bukhari, emphasizing agreement with his assertion that workers are being unjustly detained under OGW grounds and other flimsy excuses. He noted a coincidence that these OGW lists were compiled during the regimes of the National Conference (NC).

Calling for a level playing field for all political entities, Lone urged the Election Commission and administration to refrain from selective actions. He also urged them to scrutinize the history and context of lists in police stations, alleging that many were compiled by the NC.

Furthermore, Lone accused the NC of attempting to portray themselves as victims and staging a drama of victimhood. He criticized the NC, labeling them as past rulers who imposed cruelty upon Kashmiris.

Lone highlighted a perceived status-quoist ecosystem, suggesting that those advocating for political stagnation in Kashmir are still active. Additionally, he accused certain elements, whom he referred to as “Tourist/Tarbaaz (TT)”, of perpetuating a narrative of victimhood.

Politics

Mehbooba Condemns BJP Amid Rising Militant Attacks in Pir Panchal; Questions Security Situation

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PDP President Mehbooba Mufti has launched a scathing criticism against the BJP, pointing to a surge in militant attacks in the Pir Panchal region. Speaking to reporters in Srinagar, Mufti expressed her condemnation of a recent attack in the area. She emphasized that under BJP rule, regions that were once peaceful and free from militancy are now experiencing heightened violence.

Mufti’s remarks underscored her concern over the deteriorating security situation in the Pir Panchal region, questioning why it has become a target for militant activities. She called on the BJP to provide answers regarding the security measures in place and the reasons behind the escalation of violence in previously tranquil areas.

The recent incident that prompted Mufti’s remarks involved the ambush of an Indian Air Force convoy in Shaistar, Poonch district. Tragically, one soldier lost his life, and four others sustained injuries in the attack. Following this incident, security forces launched a massive Cordon and Search Operation (CASO) across various parts of dense forests and adjoining areas.

Mufti’s criticism highlights the ongoing tensions between the PDP and BJP, particularly concerning security and governance issues in Jammu and Kashmir. As the situation in the Pir Panchal region remains tense, Mufti’s demand for accountability and action from the BJP underscores the need for effective measures to address the escalating violence and restore peace in the region.

Politics

Waheed Parra, PDP Youth President, Vows to Represent Youth Sentiment in Srinagar Lok Sabha Race

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In his bid for the Srinagar Lok Sabha seat, Waheed Parra, the youth president of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), pledged to effectively voice the aspirations of the youth in Parliament through democratic means.

Speaking exclusively to Kashmir News Service (KNS) after filing his nomination, Parra emphasized the party’s commitment to reaching every household in Jammu and Kashmir. He expressed determination to seek the support of those who felt neglected over the past five years.

Parra asserted that the PDP embodies the aspirations of the youth in the region and promised to serve as their representative, urging voters to entrust the party with the responsibility of articulating their concerns in the national Parliament.

He highlighted the significance of connecting with the PDP, particularly after the events of August 5, 2019. Parra praised Mehbooba Mufti, the party’s leader, for her unwavering stance in advocating for the people amidst challenging circumstances.

Parra acknowledged the prevailing sentiments of boycott among some segments but urged the youth to exercise their voting rights, emphasizing that their ballots hold the power to bring about change.

In conclusion, Parra reaffirmed the PDP’s commitment to democratically representing the sentiments of the people, underscoring the party’s dedication to fostering positive change in the region.

Politics

PDP Appoints Umar Dar as Organisational Secretary for Srinagar District

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The People’s Democratic Party (PDP) appointed Umar Dar as Organisational Secretary for Srinagar district, extending their best wishes for his new role. Dar, previously serving as district Secretary for Youth, has significantly contributed to strengthening the party’s structure in Srinagar.

The district unit of PDP, along with Lal Chowk constituency incharge Zuhaib Yousf Mir, congratulated him on his appointment. Umar expressed gratitude to the party for entrusting him with the responsibility of Organisational Secretary.

Politics

PDP to Contest All Kashmir Lok Sabha Seats Despite Criticism from NC: Mehbooba Mufti Announces Candidate List Soon

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mehboba mufti

PDP President Mehbooba Mufti declared that the party will vie for all Lok Sabha seats in Kashmir, with candidate selections forthcoming. Speaking at a press conference in Srinagar, Mehbooba expressed disappointment with Omar Abdullah’s remarks, stating that the PDP’s presence is crucial given the post-August 5, 2019 circumstances, where freedoms are curtailed. She criticized Omar for not consulting with the PDP before his statements, citing the deep hurt felt by PDP workers.

Mehbooba questioned Farooq Abdullah’s role in the alliance, accusing the NC of disregarding PDP’s interests. Despite the criticism, Mehbooba confirmed that the PDP will unveil its candidate list shortly.

Politics

BJP Leader Devender Singh Rana Attributes Emergence of Militancy to Rigged 1987 Elections Under Rajiv Gandhi in J&K

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In a recent address to prominent members of the Gujjar community in Tehsil Nagrota and Dansal, Senior BJP leader Mr. Devender Singh Rana reflected on the tumultuous events of 1987 in Jammu and Kashmir. He pointed out that the rigged elections during the Congress government’s tenure, led by Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi, sowed the seeds of disillusionment and eventually gave rise to terrorism.

According to Mr. Rana, the Congress inadvertently provided Pakistan with an opportunity to exploit the post-election chaos, resulting in a wave of terrorism that wrought havoc on the region. He emphasized that had the concerns raised by the then Governor Jagmohan been addressed by the late Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi, the situation might have been different. However, the inaction of the Congress government allowed terrorism to flourish, leading to widespread destruction and loss of life over the next three decades.

Mr. Rana credited the BJP, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, for steering Jammu and Kashmir away from the brink of perpetual instability. He asserted that the BJP’s proactive approach since August 6, 2019, has restored faith in governance mechanisms and significantly contributed to peace and stability in the region. The redressal of grievances, coupled with focused developmental efforts, has ushered in a new era of progress for the people of Jammu and Kashmir.

Highlighting the transformative initiatives undertaken by the BJP government over the past four years, Mr. Rana stressed the unprecedented focus on infrastructural development and the implementation of welfare schemes. He noted that the people of Jammu and Kashmir are now experiencing a sense of inclusion and empowerment, as they witness tangible improvements in their lives. The restoration of peace has paved the way for tangible progress on multiple fronts, bringing about a positive change in the socio-economic landscape of the region.

Politics

NC Selects Mian Altaf as Lok Sabha Candidate for Anantnag-Rajouri Seat

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The National Conference (NC) made a significant announcement on Monday, revealing its choice for the Lok Sabha candidate for the Anantnag-Rajouri constituency. Former minister and legislator from Kangan, Mian Altaf, emerged as the selected candidate for this crucial position.

NC’s Vice President, Omar Abdullah, conveyed the decision, citing the party’s high confidence in Mian Altaf’s capabilities to represent the Anantnag-Rajouri constituency effectively. According to Kashmir News Service (KNS), Omar Abdullah emphasized that the party’s leadership firmly believes that Mian Altaf is the most suitable candidate for this seat.

In his statement, Omar Abdullah reiterated the party’s unwavering decision to nominate Mian Altaf for the upcoming Lok Sabha polls. This move underscores the National Conference’s strategic planning as it gears up for the electoral battle in the Anantnag-Rajouri constituency.

This announcement marks the commencement of NC’s preparations for the impending Lok Sabha elections, scheduled to kick off from April 19, spanning across seven phases nationwide. With Mian Altaf’s nomination, the party aims to secure a strong foothold in the Anantnag-Rajouri region, signaling its intent to represent the diverse interests and concerns of the constituency effectively.

KNS had previously reported on NC’s intention to field Mian Altaf as its candidate for the Anantnag-Rajouri seat. Additionally, speculations abound regarding the potential candidacies of Omar Abdullah himself, who is likely to contest from the Srinagar-Pulwama constituency, and Choudhary Ramzan, who is anticipated to vie for the Baramulla constituency.

As the electoral landscape takes shape, the National Conference’s strategic nominations and Omar Abdullah’s expression of confidence in the chosen candidates underscore the party’s commitment to advancing its political agenda and securing representation for the people of Jammu and Kashmir.

Politics

National Conference Prepares to Field Local Leader for Baramulla Constituency in Lok Sabha Elections

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The National Conference (NC) is gearing up to nominate a local leader from Kupwara district for the Baramulla constituency in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, slated for April and May 2024.

According to sources familiar with the matter speaking to Kashmir News Service (KNS), the party is considering selecting one of two former local ministers to contest the Lok Sabha elections from the Baramulla constituency. However, a final decision is yet to be made and is expected in the coming days.

Addressing speculations, sources dismissed the notion that NC Vice-President Omar Abdullah would vie for the north Kashmir seat, suggesting instead that he is poised to run for the central Kashmir Lok Sabha seat.

“There has been extensive discussion on the issue, and party leaders have submitted a list of candidates to the high command for all three seats in the Kashmir valley,” the sources stated.

They emphasized the consensus among party workers in Kupwara district to field a local candidate, taking into consideration the dynamics of local political competition.

“Party VP Omar Abdullah is prepared to contest from central Kashmir, while former Ganderbal district minister Mian Altaf is slated to run for the south Kashmir seat,” they added.

Clarifying the situation regarding the north Kashmir seat, they indicated that either Chowdhary Mohammad Ramazan or Mir Saifullah would likely be the party’s candidate, with discussions ongoing and a decision expected soon.

The Baramulla seat, with 11.47 lakh voters, spans across 16 assembly segments in four districts: Baramulla, Kupwara, Bandipora, and Budgam.

Politics

Peoples Conference Welcomes New Members and Renewed Support in Langate and Handwara Constituencies

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Several socio-political activists, representing diverse political perspectives from Gonipora in the Langate Constituency and Chayalpati, Drugmulla areas of the Handwara constituency, aligned themselves with the Peoples Conference today in the presence of party President Sajad Gani Lone.

The event marked a significant surge in support for the party, with numerous former members rejoining to reaffirm their unwavering commitment to the ideals and goals of the PC. Additionally, individuals from various political backgrounds expressed their confidence and trust in the party leadership.

In his address to the new members, President Lone outlined a compelling vision for the party’s future direction, underscoring the importance of grassroots engagement with the community.

“Our party transcends conventional political boundaries. We are driven by a collective ambition to uplift all segments of our society, foster prosperity, and ensure that every voice is not only heard but also valued, with opportunities to flourish,” he remarked.

Lone reiterated the party’s steadfast commitment to advocating for the pressing issues facing the people.

“The Peoples Conference has consistently served as a beacon of hope, tirelessly amplifying the voices of the marginalized. With the unwavering support of the people, we pledge to champion their concerns in the highest legislative forums of our nation,” he affirmed.

The new members, brimming with enthusiasm, expressed their dedication to the party’s cause and vowed to actively contribute to the transformative vision set forth by President Sajad Gani Lone.