In a significant political development, former deputy chief minister Muzaffar Hussain Baig has thrown his weight behind the Peoples Conference (PC) and endorsed party president Sajad Gani Lone as his own. Baig made this announcement during a workers’ meeting in Baramulla, affirming his support for Lone’s candidacy in the upcoming Lok Sabha (LS) elections.
Baig, addressing reporters, revealed that Sajad Lone had approached him multiple times, prompting him to make the decision to back Lone’s candidacy in the LS polls. Describing Lone as akin to his own son, Baig emphasized the familial bond, stating, “If I do not support my own child, whom else would I support, the enemy?”
Expressing his heartfelt wishes for Lone’s victory in the LS elections, Baig underscored the importance of personal relations in political alliances. Notably, Sajad Lone is contesting from the Baramulla Parliament constituency as the PC candidate, with polls scheduled for May 20.
Reflecting on his differences with the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Baig highlighted a major dispute stemming from Mehbooba Mufti’s stance on the national flag. Baig reiterated his commitment to upholding the national flag, stressing the importance of allegiance to India.
Despite political divergences, Baig expressed respect and familial affection towards Mehbooba Mufti, referring to her as his sister. He commended Iltija Mufti, Mehbooba’s daughter, for her intelligence and praised Waheed, her husband, as well.
Baig urged for a pragmatic approach to political differences, asserting that such issues are commonplace in politics and should not be blown out of proportion. Meanwhile, Safeena Bai, Baig’s wife and the District Development Council (DDC) chairperson of Baramulla, criticized NC MP Muhammad Akbar Lone for allegedly neglecting Baramulla district in the distribution of MP funds.
Sajad Lone’s recent visit to Baig’s residence in April underscored the strategic importance of garnering support from influential figures like Baig in the ongoing LS elections in north Kashmir’s Baramulla constituency.