Major Boost for National Conference as Key AIP Leaders Join Ranks

Several prominent members of the Awami Ittehad Party (AIP) have joined the National Conference (NC), including Malik Tariq Rashid and Tanveer Chalkoo. The move, announced by NC spokespersons, is seen as a significant political development that will bolster NC's campaigning efforts. This follows close political advisor Engineer Rashid's previous influence.

In a significant political shift, several key members of the Awami Ittehad Party (AIP) have defected to the National Conference (NC), a move that is expected to greatly enhance the NC's influence in north Kashmir.

The NC's latest recruits include Malik Tariq Rashid, a prominent leader from north Kashmir, and Tanveer Chalkoo. Both were closely associated with jailed Lok Sabha member Sheikh Abdul Rashid, also known as Engineer Rashid.

NC vice president Omar Abdullah officially welcomed the new members, stating that their inclusion would have a lasting impact on the region's political landscape and the party's ability to challenge the BJP and its allies.

(With inputs from agencies.)