Amid alliance uncertainty, Congress starts screening for candidates for J&K Lok Sabha Polls

With no ongoing discussions for an alliance with the National Conference (NC) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), the Congress party has taken the decisive step of initiating the screening process for potential candidates in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections in Jammu and Kashmir.

The screening process for all five Lok Sabha constituencies in the region is currently in progress in Jammu, under the supervision of the AICC Committee led by former Minister of State Bhakta Charan Das and Rajya Sabha Member Neeraj Dangi.

Addressing the media during this screening phase, Bhakta Charan Das emphasized the need for the Modi-led government to respect democracy, the aspirations of the people of J&K, and the Supreme Court’s directive for holding assembly polls before September-end. While expressing doubt about the government’s willingness to conduct elections, Das stated, “The election can happen if the government is willing, but I do not see it happening. They have not respected democracy in many places. Nevertheless, it will be beneficial if they proceed with the assembly polls here.”

Responding to queries about the party’s readiness for the assembly elections in the Union Territory, Das highlighted ongoing dialogues with alliance partners to address concerns. While the cluster-IV screening committee focuses on technical aspects, the finalization of candidates and political negotiations with alliance partners will be handled by a separate committee.

Das emphasized the significance of the INDIA bloc in Jammu and Kashmir and the country, expressing the opinion that all alliance partners must move forward together. As political dynamics unfold, the Congress leader called for a united front and urged the government to fulfill its democratic responsibilities in the region. The decision to contest independently in the Lok Sabha elections underscores the party’s commitment to navigate the political landscape with its own strategy.