Cong Push for Statehood Puts NC on the Defensive

Omar campaign on restoring Article 370 shelved after forming govt

- FAYAZ WANI @Srinagar

FOR the first time since formation of the Omar Abdullah government in Jammu and Kashmir last year, the Congress has pushed its ally, the National Conference (NC), into an uncomfortable political corner.

By unilaterally stepping up its campaign for the restoration of J&K statehood, the Congress has not only bypassed its long-time partner but also taken the battle to the national stage on its own terms.

The Congress, which contested the 2024 J&K Assembly polls in alliance with the NC and won six seats, has so far refused to join the government, maintaining it would only do so once statehood is restored.