Budgam, Sept 25: Aga Syed Ruhullah Mehdi, a senior leader of the National Conference (NC) and Member of Parliament, on Wednesday called for respecting the people’s mandate in the ongoing Jammu & Kashmir elections.
He expressed optimism that the elections will be free and fair while welcoming the visit of 16 foreign diplomats to observe the polling process in Jammu & Kashmir.
Speaking to the media persons after casting his vote at a polling station in the main town of Budgam, Ruhullah said, “It is a good thing that the foreign delegates are observing the elections in Jammu & Kashmir. I have nothing much to say about the visit, but we hope this election will be conducted in a transparent manner.”
The MP said it is more important that the mandate of the people, expressed through their votes, should be upheld and respected by all parties.
Ruhullah dismissed claims by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) regarding its potential to form the government in Jammu & Kashmir. He accused the party of attempting to engineer a divided vote in a bid to recreate the political scenario of 2014, where the BJP managed to secure power by forming a coalition government with the People’s Democratic Party.
“The people of Jammu & Kashmir are now more politically aware and will stand behind parties that safeguard their interests,” he said. “People know that division of vote is not in their interest and there is no chance for BJP to form a government in J&K this time,” Mehdi said.
Ruhullah also expressed hope that the National Conference-Indian National Congress alliance would garner enough support to form the next government. “The people’s backing for the alliance is evident,” he said.
