Congress-NC Forge Alliance Ahead of Jammu and Kashmir Assembly Elections

The Congress and National Conference have formed a pre-poll alliance in Jammu and Kashmir, announcing seat-sharing discussions for the upcoming assembly elections. The alliance was confirmed after key meetings between Congress and NC leaders, aiming to contest all 90 seats in the state.

The Congress and the National Conference have officially announced a pre-poll alliance in a strategic move ahead of the Jammu and Kashmir assembly elections. Seat-sharing talks are currently underway, according to an announcement on Thursday following a meeting between Congress leader Rahul Gandhi and NC chief Farooq Abdullah.

The announcement came shortly after an hour-long discussion involving Rahul Gandhi, Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge, and NC leaders Farooq and Omar Abdullah. NC patron Farooq Abdullah declared the tie-up in Srinagar, stating that the alliance aims to contest all 90 seats in the upcoming polls.

"United we stand," JKNC posted on X. Farooq Abdullah, alongside his son Omar, met with Kharge and Rahul Gandhi to finalize the alliance. The seats distribution details are expected to be announced by this evening. "People have suffered much in the last 10 years. Statehood is the prime concern for us," Abdullah noted, emphasizing the alliance's focus on restoring statehood and fighting divisive forces.

Rahul Gandhi reinforced the alliance's commitment to reinstating democratic rights and statehood for the people of Jammu and Kashmir. Addressing citizens, he highlighted the unique cultural heritage of Jammu and criticized BJP's centralization policies. "We want statehood for you, that is in your heart. We want you to run your state the way you want to," Gandhi said, stressing his personal bond with the region.

Rahul Gandhi also pointed to the ideological battle between Congress and RSS. He confidently asserted that Congress workers have significantly undermined Prime Minister Modi's confidence, pledging to continue supporting Jammu and Kashmir from Delhi.

The elections, spread over three phases on September 18, 25, and October 1, will mark the first assembly poll since the abrogation of Article 370. The Election Commission has already notified the first phase for 24 assembly seats.

(With inputs from agencies.)