Abdullah Urges Unified Vote Amid Kashmir Political Landscape

National Conference vice president Omar Abdullah has urged voters in Jammu and Kashmir to avoid splitting their votes among numerous independent candidates, warning that it could weaken their representation. He emphasized the significance of the upcoming assembly elections, expressing hope for strong support for the NC-Congress alliance.

National Conference (NC) vice president Omar Abdullah on Wednesday urged voters in Jammu and Kashmir to avoid splitting their votes among numerous independent candidates.

He asserted that many of these candidates aim to fragment the ballot, particularly in the Kashmir region.

Abdullah cautioned that dividing the vote could weaken representation for the people of Jammu and Kashmir, especially given the elections planned after a decade of significant changes in the region.

He expressed optimism about voters supporting the NC-Congress alliance, which includes a CPI(M) member, in the upcoming assembly polls.

The importance of these elections cannot be overstated as they come after 10 years and follow major territorial and administrative changes.

On the Prime Minister Narendra Modi's upcoming rally, Abdullah expressed skepticism regarding its impact on the Kashmir valley seats.

He also responded to Union Home Minister Amit Shah's remarks about Article 370, asserting that many essential issues can be pursued even without governmental consent, citing the Supreme Court's mandate for the election.

(With inputs from agencies.)