Omar Abdullah Defends Seat-Surfing Deal with Congress for Critical J&K Polls

Omar Abdullah, former J&K Chief Minister, explains the strategic seat-sharing pact between National Conference and Congress ahead of the assembly elections. He dismisses BJP's narrative on Article 370 and calls for robust domicile laws in J&K, criticizing the economic impacts of the discontinued Darbar move.

Former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah defended his party's decision to 'surrender' seats in a strategic alliance with Congress for the upcoming assembly polls. Abdullah emphasized that such adjustments are necessary to avoid jeopardizing the overall goals of the tie-up.

In an interview with ANI, Abdullah criticized the BJP for distorting the narrative around Article 370, claiming it was falsely portrayed as hated by Jammu residents but loved by Kashmiris. He pointed out that BJP's reduced margins in the 2024 elections in the Jammu region contradict this narrative.

He highlighted the significance of the Darbar move's discontinuation on Jammu's economy and called for stronger domicile laws. Abdullah refrained from speculating on NC-Congress alliance's chances and potential Chief Minister candidates, stressing his focus on local issues during the campaign.

(With inputs from agencies.)