Srinagar, October 10, 2024 – In a significant political development in Jammu and Kashmir, Omar Abdullah, Vice President of the National Conference (NC), has been unanimously elected as the Legislature Party Leader. The election took place during a crucial meeting of the party’s legislature in Srinagar today, following the results of the Assembly elections where the National Conference emerged as the single largest party.
The National Conference secured 42 seats in the 90-member Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly, positioning itself as a key player in the formation of the next government. The party convened the legislature meeting to deliberate on the next steps, including the formation of a coalition government with its pre-poll alliance partners, the Congress and the Communist Party of India (Marxist) [CPI(M)].
The coalition has received an additional boost with four winning independent candidates announcing their decision to join the National Conference during the meeting. Their inclusion further strengthens the party’s position in the assembly, bringing the total support count to 46.
Addressing party members, Omar Abdullah expressed his gratitude for the unanimous support and reaffirmed the National Conference’s commitment to working for the people of Jammu and Kashmir. “We will strive to form a stable and inclusive government that addresses the aspirations of all regions and communities of the state,” Abdullah said.
The next few days are expected to see formal talks between the National Conference and its alliance partners to finalize the government formation. With the support of the Congress, CPI(M), and independents, the NC-led coalition is expected to comfortably cross the majority mark of 45 seats needed to form the government.
This political development comes at a crucial time for Jammu and Kashmir as the region continues its transition towards full statehood and faces pressing economic and social challenges.