PDP president Mehbooba Mufti on Tuesday, October 8, 2024, issued a strong message to the Centre following the decisive results of the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly elections. She congratulated the National Conference (NC) leadership on their victory, emphasizing the importance of a stable government for addressing the challenges faced by the people, particularly in the aftermath of August 5, 2019.
Ms. Mufti expressed her belief that the people of Jammu and Kashmir had deliberately voted for a stable government, opting for a clear mandate rather than a hung assembly. She highlighted that the people had experienced numerous difficulties following August 5, 2019, making a strong and stable government crucial for their resolution.
Drawing a direct link between the election results and the Centre’s role, Ms. Mufti stated, “It seemed that if there was not a clear mandate, then there would be some misadventure.” She urged the Centre to learn from the clear verdict and refrain from interfering in the affairs of the upcoming NC-Congress government. “If they do that, it will be disastrous and worse than what has happened to them now,” she cautioned.
Ms. Mufti further elaborated on the rationale behind the people’s choice of the NC-Congress alliance, stating, “They (people) thought the NC-Congress alliance will provide a stable government and fight the BJP and keep it away. I think that is the biggest reason (for the victory of the NC-Congress alliance).”
The PDP chief expressed gratitude to her party leaders and cadre for their dedication during the elections, emphasizing their unwavering commitment despite the challenges they faced. She assured them that the PDP would play the role of a constructive opposition, recognizing that the people’s concerns extend beyond the conclusion of the elections. “We will play the role of a constructive opposition. The issues of the people do not end with an election,” she stated.
Ms. Mufti’s statements hold significant political weight in the context of the complex political landscape of Jammu and Kashmir. Her call for non-interference underscores the importance of allowing the elected government to function independently, a sentiment echoed by many observers. The PDP’s commitment to playing a constructive opposition role further indicates a potential shift towards a more cooperative approach in the state’s political arena.
