PDP Awaits J&K Poll Results To Decide On National Conference-Congress Alliance: Iltija Mufti

With exit polls signalling a close contest in the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly elections, PDP leader Iltija Mufti clarified that her party's stance on joining a "secular front" will be decided only after the election results are declared on Tuesday.

Dispelling rumours of an alliance with the National Conference-Congress, Mufti emphasized that the party's senior leadership would review its position after assessing the final vote tally.

Iltija Mufti On J&K Poll Results

"Speculations are unnecessary. PDP's official stand is to consider extending support to a secular front once the results are out," Mufti, daughter of former Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti, posted on social media.

Her statement follows remarks from PDP candidate Zuhaib Yousuf Mir, who hinted that the party may align with the National Conference-Congress coalition to counter the BJP if needed. Mir added that the PDP aims to preserve Kashmir's identity by supporting a secular government.

Unnecessary speculations. Let me put the record straight. PDPs senior leadership will take a call on extending support to a secular front only once the results are out. This is our official stand.

— Iltija Mufti (@IltijaMufti_) October 7, 2024

Meanwhile, the National Conference-Congress alliance is expected to lead with 40-48 seats, according to the India Today CVoter exit poll, while the BJP, promoting its "Naya Kashmir" agenda, may secure 27-32 seats. The PDP is projected to win 6-12 seats and could play a pivotal role as kingmaker if no single party secures a majority.

Ram Madhav, BJP's election in-charge for J&K, dismissed any speculation about a BJP alliance with other parties, stating, "We are not in talks with anybody."