Senior PDP leader hints at alliance for J&K elections

Madni emphasised the need for people to unite for a larger purpose

CNN Central News & Network–ITDC India Epress/ITDC News Bhopal: Sartaj Madni, a senior leader of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), hinted at the party's inclination towards forming an alliance for the forthcoming assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir.

While refraining from explicitly endorsing a pre-poll alliance, Madni emphasised the need for people to unite for a larger purpose.

"I haven’t discussed a pre-poll alliance, but I strongly believe in uniting for a greater cause," he asserted.

As the chairman of the PDP Parliamentary Board, Madni reiterated the significance of the Peoples’ Alliance for Gupkar Declaration (PAGD), led by Farooq Abdullah, advocating for the reinstatement of statehood and Article 370.

Crediting Mehbooba Mufti for orchestrating the PAGD formation, he underscored the necessity of preserving unity within the coalition.

"Mehbooba stands firmly with the PAGD. We are committed to safeguarding its unity," he said.

He clarified the PDP’s primary objective – fostering unity among all residents of J&K for a broader shared goal.

Regarding candidate selection for the upcoming Lok Sabha polls, he said the party’s parliamentary board would meet soon and decisions would be made.

Challenging the government’s claims of improved security situation, Madni questioned the delay in conducting panchayat and Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) elections.

"If significant improvement exists, why the delay in these elections or the assembly polls?" he asked, advocating for a stable environment for fair elections.

Expressing the party's reliance on higher forces concerning the recent Supreme Court ruling on Article 370, Madni said, “Our hopes transcend the Supreme Court. We await the unfolding of fate.”

Regarding the suspension of several MPs, Madni acknowledged it as a parliamentary issue but expressed concerns, stating, “I am apprehensive that the essence of the Constitution has been overlooked in our country.”