NC issues whip for Rajya Sabha elections, warns against abstaining or remaining absent

Srinagar, Oct 23: The Jammu and Kashmir National Conference has issued a three-line whip to all its legislators ahead of the upcoming Rajya Sabha elections scheduled for October 24. The directive, issued by Chief Whip Mubarak Gul on Wednesday, makes it mandatory for all party MLAs to remain present in the Assembly and vote in accordance with party directions.

According to the formal communication (No. JKNC/CW/2025/02), the whip instructs every member of the Jammu and Kashmir National Conference in the Legislative Assembly to attend the session on October 24, the day of polling for the Rajya Sabha elections.

The order states that members must cast their vote in favour of the official candidates nominated by the party and strictly refrain from abstaining, remaining absent, or voting contrary to party directives.

“In exercise of the powers vested in me as Chief Whip of the Jammu & Kashmir National Conference, all Hon’ble Members of the Party in the Jammu & Kashmir Legislative Assembly are hereby strictly directed to remain present in the Assembly on 24th October, 2025, cast their vote in favour of the official candidates of the Party, and refrain from abstaining, remaining absent, or voting contrary to the directions of the Party,” the document reads.

The whip has been issued in view of the crucial Rajya Sabha elections where the National Conference aims to secure representation in the Upper House of Parliament. Party insiders said strict adherence to the whip is being ensured to maintain unity and discipline within the ranks. [KNT]