Mian Altaf's ailing health casts doubt on his Lok Sabha campaign, candidacy

Srinagar, Apr 13: In a setback to the party, the National Conference candidate for Anantnag-Rajouri Parliamentary seat, Mian Altaf Ahmad is likely to miss campaigning due to poor health, sources told Greater Kashmir.

The non-availability of the senior leader has also cast a shadow over his candidature from the seat, they said.

Mian Altaf, who has been a five-time legislator from Kangan constituency in central Kashmir’s Ganderbal district, has not been in good health from the past few days and is unlikely to carry on his campaign for the election.

Sources said that doctors have advised him to rest for several weeks, making him unavailable for the campaigning.

Confirming the development to Greater Kashmir, Mian Altaf said: "Unfortunately, I have contracted some infection and the doctors have advised me to take rest for six weeks.”

Because of this, he said, “I won't be able to campaign or go out."

Sources in the party said any further decision about him contesting the elections will be conveyed accordingly within a couple of days.

Earlier this month, National Conference had announced veteran leader Mian Altaf as their candidate for Anantnag-Rajouri seat which will go to polls on May 7 in the third phase of Lok Sabha elections.

While making the announcement in a press conference, NC Vice President Omar Abdullah emphasised Ahmad's widespread popularity across various segments of society and expressed confidence that he would garner substantial support from the people.

PDP has fielded party president Mehbooba Mufti from the seat while the BJP is yet to announce a candidate.