Iftikhar Hussain Misgar is National Conference candidate from Anantnag

Srinagar, Nov 21: Ruling National Conference on Thursday announced to field Iftikhar Hussain Misgar as its candidate from Anantnag assembly constituency in Jammu and Kashmir, days after its senior leader withdrew from the race in favour of opposition PDP.

"After due consultations with the party high command, workers and leaders and under the directives of NC working president Omar Abdullah, the party has decided to field Iftikhar Hussain Misgar as its candidate from Anantnag," a party spokesman said.

He said Misgar is a young, educated leader and the leadership was sure that he would strengthen the party at the grassroots level in Anantnag and emerge victorious in the elections.

The party also suspended its two-time MP Mehboob Beg from the basic membership for "anti-party" activities.

In a surprise development, Beg on Sunday had announced his decision to quit National Conference and withdrew his candidature in favour of PDP patron and former chief minister Mufti Mohammad Sayeed who is seeking re-election from Anantnag seat.

PTI