NC-Congress alliance open for like-minded parties in govt formation: Tariq Karra

Srinagar, Oct 2: Jammu and Kashmir Pradesh Congress Committee (JKPCC) President Tariq Hameed Karra on Wednesday said that the doors of the National Conference-Congress alliance remain open to other like-minded parties or individuals, if the need arise for additional support in forming the government in Jammu and Kashmir.

Talking to reporters on the sidelines of the Gandhi Jayanti function held here at Congress party headquarters , Karra said that the alliance had received strong public support, largely driven by the desire to prevent the BJP from coming to power. "If necessary, we are open to discussions with like-minded forces, parties, or individuals. We will consult with our alliance partner if the need arises to engage such entities," he said.

When asked whether the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) was being considered a like-minded party, Karra refrained from labeling any group, by simply saying that the alliance seeks to unite those opposed to the BJP's "repressive and oppressive" policies.

J&K Congress President also expressed concern over the Lieutenant Governor nominating five MLAs to the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly, calling it part of a "nefarious design." He said that the move was aimed at influencing the democratic process in J&K.

Commenting on the potential role of independent candidates in the upcoming October 8 election results, Karra dismissed them as "spoilers," claiming that the Centre, after trying various unsuccessful tactics, resorted to fielding independents to fragment the vote. "Their only goal is to disempower Kashmiris," he stated.

In response to a question about the detention of climate activist Sonam Wangchuck and other Ladakhis in Delhi, the senior Congress leader criticised the prevailing political environment under the BJP. He said that the Government uses imprisonment as a tool against anyone, regardless of religion or region, who opposes the BJP or RSS ideology.

Karra also dismissed the BJP’s claims of peace in Jammu and Kashmir, arguing that what the BJP describes as calm is actually an atmosphere of fear. "True peace resides in the hearts and minds of people, but here, fear dominates," he said, adding that the J&K is being governed through a "jackboot policy." He asserted that the public mandate was clearly against such oppressive policies and interference in religious matters.