Omar Abdullah Casts Doubt on Credibility of Kashmir-BJP Alliances

Former J&K Chief Minister Omar Abdullah criticized political parties aligning with the BJP in Kashmir, stressing that their ideologies clash. He cited the unsuccessful example of Apni Party and emphasized the importance of local independent candidates. Abdullah compared the current BJP with Vajpayee's more reconciliatory approach.

Former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has expressed doubts over the credibility of political parties aligning with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in the Kashmir region. In an interview with ANI, Abdullah reflected on his past associations with the BJP, emphasizing that there is no common ground between their current aspirations for the valley.

He pointed out the significant role of Independent candidates in previous elections, but noted the emergence of new political outfits. "In the 2002 government, Mufti saahab formed an alliance with the Congress with support from 14 to 15 independents. Today, what's changing is the mushrooming of political outfits," said Abdullah.

Abdullah highlighted the lack of success of these new parties, using the Apni Party led by Altaf Bukhari as an example. "Apni Party, once given significant importance by Delhi, lost deposits in both Parliament seats they contested. Parties born from BJP alliances aren't trusted by the people of Jammu and Kashmir," he stated. He contrasted the present BJP government with the Vajpayee-led era, noting its more conciliatory policies.

The National Conference and Congress are collaborating for the upcoming J&K Assembly polls, with additional support from the Samajwadi Party. Elections are scheduled in three phases on September 18, 25, and October 1, followed by counting on October 8.

(With inputs from agencies.)