Exit poll predictions ignite intense political negotiations across J&K

BJP, Cong, NC reach out potential independents, smaller groups to remain in race for govt formation

Jammu: A day after pollsters predicted a hung assembly in Jammu and Kashmir with no clear majority for any party in the recently-concluded elections, hectic lobbying has begun in Jammu and Kashmir among three major contenders—BJP, National Conference (NC) and Congress- as they are exploring every option to position itself for the first-ever government formation in the Union Territory post-abrogation of Article 370.
The exit polls have predicted that the National Conference-Congress may form the new government in Jammu and Kashmir, while the BJP is likely to be the major opposition party with 23-27 seats in the 90-member legislative assembly in Jammu and Kashmir.
Buoyed by exit poll predictions, Congress is learnt to have reached out to potential independents in the Jammu region, aiming to bolster its winning tally and form a stable coalition with the NC.
Former chief minister and NC patron Farooq Abdullah has made it clear that there was no question of joining the BJP in forming the next government in Jammu and Kashmir. The PDP, on the other hand, its willingness to support a Congress-NC coalition government if it falls short of the magic number of 48 seats required for a majority in J&K legislative assembly.
Sources told The News Now that Jammu and Kashmir Congress chief Tariq Hameed Qarra, who was in Jammu, along with senior party leaders scramble to secure alliances with independents and form a coalition government with the National Conference.
“Qarra is reportedly engaging with independents, inviting them to join the new government if they secure victories in their respective constituencies. Recognizing the significance of these independents, Qarra's strategy focuses on forming alliances that would enhance the Congress-NC claim to government formation,” sources said.
Sources further said that the JKPCC chief emphasized a “vision of collaboration and shared governance”, appealing to the independents’ desire to serve their constituencies effectively.
“His approach hinges on presenting a united front, highlighting the need for a stable government that prioritizes development and addresses the pressing concerns of the local populace. As he works to build these critical bridges, the clock is ticking,” sources added.
If sources are to be believed, Qarra also reached out to Jugal Kishore Sharma, a former minister and founding member of the DPAP, who has gained considerable traction among voters in the newly carved Mata Vaishno Devi Assembly constituency. The BJP fielded former MLA Baldev Raj Sharma on the seat but faced protests and resentment after denying a ticket to its potential candidate Rohit Dubey.
On the flip side, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is leaving no stone unturned in its quest to remain a “significant player” in the new government. The party’s high command has been in constant touch with senior leaders in Jammu and Kashmir, strategizing on how to win over smaller political groups and independents who may be dissatisfied with the Congress-NC coalition.
A senior BJP leader, speaking on condition of anonymity, stated, “We are identifying smaller groups and key independents who could support a BJP-led alliance. We are optimistic about our performance in these assembly polls and all exit polls will prove wrong on October 8.”
The leader said while some senior central leaders, including Ram Madhav, are already in touch with potential Independent candidates of Kashmir Valley, leaders of Jammu province have been assigned the job of approaching those Independents who have the potential to emerge victorious in the elections.
“Some party leaders, who have cordial relations with strong Independent candidates, have initiated dialogue with potential independents so that other political parties could not lure them in case of a fractured mandate. There is a possibility that around half a dozen Independent candidates may emerge as strong contenders in their respective constituencies in Jammu province.
In the Chhamb assembly segment, Congress stalwart Tara Chand is vying against BJP’s Rajiv Sharma, while Congress rebel Satish Sharma has also emerged as a strong independent candidate.
Furthermore, efforts are underway to establish backchannel communications with BJP rebels like Pawan Khajuria, a strong contender in Udhampur East, and Suraj Singh Parihar, who has posed challenges for the party’s official candidate in Ramban.
Sources added, “As both national parties engage in this high-stakes political game, the independents hold the balance of power, particularly in the Jammu region. Their decisions in the coming days will be crucial in determining the future governance of Jammu and Kashmir. The atmosphere is rife with speculation and tension, as each party vies for the crucial support that could make or break their ambitions”.

Updated On 10/7/2024 3:50:07 AM