“NC and Congress Form Alliance, But Disagreements Over Kashmir Seats Remain a Challenge

The Congress and National Conference (NC) announced their alliance on Thursday, agreeing to jointly contest all 90 seats in Jammu and Kashmir in the upcoming Assembly elections. The alliance was solidified following a key meeting at the residence of NC president Farooq Abdullah in Srinagar, which was attended by Congress leader Rahul Gandhi and party president Mallikarjun Kharge. The discussions, which lasted over an hour, were instrumental in finalizing the partnership.

Farooq Abdullah confirmed the development, stating, “Our alliance is on track. We have discussed seats as well, it is final. By evening, we will sign this, and it is for all 90 seats.” He highlighted that the primary objective of the alliance is to “fight elections to defeat the divisive forces that exist in the country,” indicating a unified front against the current political landscape.

However, despite this significant step, the alliance still faces challenges, particularly regarding seat distribution in Kashmir. Negotiations are ongoing to resolve disagreements over how seats will be allocated in this politically sensitive region. Some areas in Kashmir have generated contention due to their strategic importance and the intense competition among various political factions.

The unresolved issues around seat-sharing could impact the effectiveness of the alliance’s campaign. Both parties need to address these concerns promptly to present a united front and maximize their electoral prospects. The successful resolution of these disputes is crucial for ensuring a coordinated strategy and presenting a strong challenge to the ruling parties.

The formation of this alliance is a notable development in Jammu and Kashmir’s political landscape, aiming to consolidate opposition forces and create a significant challenge to the current administration. As the election approaches, the ability of Congress and NC to navigate these internal disagreements will be key to their electoral success and their capacity to leverage their combined strengths effectively.”