Political activity is intensifying in Jammu and Kashmir. The Congress party is reassessing its alliance with the National Conference (NC).
Emphasis on Strengthening the Organization
Speaking to the media in Srinagar on Wednesday (June 25th), Congress leader and Jammu and Kashmir in-charge Nasir Hussein stated that the party is focused on strengthening its organizational structure at the grassroots level. He said, “Our aim is to bring the party to a position where it can effectively challenge the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) independently. Only when the party is b can we decisively defeat the BJP.”
Hussein clarified that the final decision regarding alliances will be made by the party’s central leadership, but for now, prioritizing organizational empowerment is the key focus. This statement comes amidst a re-evaluation of the party’s strategy following the recent Lok Sabha election results in the state.
Equal Strategy for Jammu and Kashmir
Nasir Hussein also indicated that the party is formulating a uniform strategy for both regions of Jammu and Kashmir. He explained that Congress is now concentrating not just on electoral preparations, but also on bolstering its organizational strength.
He stated, “The Lok Sabha elections in Jammu and Kashmir have concluded, and a government has been formed at the center. Now we are devising a common strategy for both parts of the state to strengthen the party’s organization at all levels.”
Hussein’s statement is being interpreted as a signal of the ongoing disagreements within the Congress party regarding alliances. It’s clear that the party is preparing to enter the next assembly elections with a new strategy.
Related to Omar Abdullah’s Statements
This statement by Nasir Hussein comes amidst the remarks made by NC leader Omar Abdullah, who suggested restoring Jammu and Kashmir’s statehood and holding fresh assembly elections. Abdullah had stated on Tuesday (June 24th) that he would not object if assembly elections were conducted after the restoration of statehood.
The Congress leadership is currently not commenting openly on the alliance issue, but the party’s strategy appears to be shifting towards greater self-reliance and preparation for elections.
Pahalgam Attack Considered Intelligence Failure
Congress leader Nasir Hussein raised questions about the central government’s policies in response to the terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir. He unequivocally termed the attack an intelligence failure.
Hussein stated, “When terrorists cross the border and kill 26 of our personnel, and there is no presence of सीआरपीएफ, police, or the Army, then it cannot be called an intelligence failure?”
He added that even the central Home Minister had acknowledged it as an intelligence failure, therefore, the government should take responsibility for the security lapse.
Strategic Deliberations Underway
Congress is currently actively engaged in formulating its strategy for the upcoming elections in Jammu and Kashmir. The party’s focus is on strengthening its organizational structure and revitalizing its workers. Nasir Hussein’s statement clearly indicates that Congress is now exploring the option of relying more on its own strength rather than alliances in the future political landscape.
The alliance between the Congress and the National Conference in Jammu and Kashmir has repeatedly experienced ups and downs. Consequently, if Congress contests independently, it could significantly alter the political dynamics of the state. It will be interesting to observe the party’s strategy and its stance on alliances in the coming days.
