| Amid differences, Cong high command directs MLAs to support NC Govt | | | Early Times Report
Jammu, Feb 2: Amid visible strains within the ruling coalition in Jammu and Kashmir, the Congress high command has directed its local unit to extend support to the National Conference (NC) government during the ongoing Budget Session of the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly, sources said.
The directive comes even as several Congress leaders in Jammu and Kashmir have publicly criticised the Omar Abdullah-led government for its alleged failure to fulfil key promises made during the Assembly elections. However, the central leadership of the Congress has made it clear that the party should not align with the BJP in opposing the NC government inside or outside the House.
Highly placed sources said the Congress leadership wants to avoid any confrontation with its coalition partner at this stage, particularly during the crucial budget session, and has advised the J&K unit to maintain coordination and restraint in its political messaging.
Differences between the Congress and the National Conference had surfaced recently during the Rajya Sabha elections, when the ruling party denied a “safe seat” to its ally, leading to resentment within Congress ranks.
In an apparent attempt to placate the aggrieved partner, the National Conference later offered the Nagrota Assembly seat to the Congress for the ensuing by-election. However, the grand old party declined to contest the by-poll, further highlighting the trust deficit between the two allies.
Following the eruption of these differences, the Congress central leadership intervened and instructed the J&K unit to avoid escalating tensions with the National Conference, keeping in mind the broader opposition unity and political stability in the Union Territory.
Significantly, National Conference Rajya Sabha members recently participated in a meeting of INDI alliance leaders ahead of the budget session, a move seen as an effort to reinforce opposition cohesion at the national level and smoothen ties with allies, including the Congress.
Political observers believe the Congress high command’s directive reflects its intent to preserve the alliance framework in Jammu and Kashmir, even as internal disagreements continue to simmer beneath the surface. |
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