NC expects solidarity from INDIA Bloc on J&K-related issues: Chowdry Ramzan

Srinagar, Jan 28: National Conference on Wednesday reaffirmed its support to the opposition INDIA bloc but pressed for "reciprocal solidarity" from the alliance on matters concerning the Union Territory, signalling a firm stance on its regional priorities within the coalition.

Senior party leader and Rajya Sabha member Chowdry Mohammad Ramzan said that the NC’s backing to the alliance was "consistent and unconditional", grounded in a shared commitment to the Constitution. He, however, emphasised that the party expects its allies to actively highlight J&K's issues at the national level, as per KNS.  Ramzan specifically urged larger constituents of the bloc, including the Congress, DMK, Samajwadi Party and Trinamool Congress, to utilise their parliamentary time to foreground the political, developmental and social concerns of the region.

The NC leader also flagged what he termed "democratic challenges" in J&K, stating that despite recent elections, "real authority remains concentrated" under the Lieutenant Governor. This, he said, has led to "dual control and the marginalisation of the elected government." "This arrangement weakens federalism and undermines the democratic mandate of the people," he said as per KNS.

The deliberations were part of the INDIA bloc's preparations for the upcoming Parliament session, where the alliance is expected to mount a concerted attack on the government on a range of issues.