Srinagar, May 6: The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has strongly rebutted the allegations made by the Jammu & Kashmir National Conference (NC) over the recent Rajya Sabha voting outcome, terming the criticism “misplaced and counterproductive.”
In a detailed statement, PDP leader Waheed Para said the controversy surrounding the Rajya Sabha elections is being used as a diversion from more pressing issues, including the Siraj-ul-Aloom controversy and concerns regarding the alleged marginalisation of Urdu in official records.
Para further pointed to the recent political developments in Jammu and Kashmir, asserting that the National Conference had itself weakened opposition unity by dismantling the PAGD and excluding the PDP from the INDIA alliance arrangement during the Assembly elections.
“Given this backdrop, the PDP owed no obligation of support to the NC. Yet, we extended unconditional support despite being aware of internal dissent within the party,” he said.
Rejecting the blame for the Rajya Sabha outcome, Para stated that the responsibility lies within the NC’s own decision-making structure. He specifically referred to procedural aspects of the voting process, noting that key decisions—such as the appointment of polling agents—were under the purview of the National Conference.
Taking a direct swipe at Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, Para said the “failure lies closer to home,” urging introspection rather than blame-shifting.
He also defended PDP president Mehbooba Mufti, describing her approach as “magnanimous and responsible.” He emphasised that she neither abstained from voting—which could have indirectly benefited the BJP—nor placed any conditions for support. Instead, she had advised focusing on securing the third Rajya Sabha seat and avoiding unnecessary contest over the uncertain fourth seat.
Para further cited earlier remarks by NC MP Aga Ruhullah, who had alleged lack of clear communication within his party during the Vice Presidential elections, questioning the NC’s internal coherence.
The PDP leader warned that continued attacks on his party could erode trust and inadvertently serve the interests of the BJP by fracturing opposition unity in Jammu and Kashmir.
“Targeting the PDP does not weaken a rival—it undermines the trust extended in good faith,” Para said, adding that political stability should remain a shared priority.
He concluded by urging the National Conference leadership to shift focus from political blame games to governance, stressing that the government must utilise its legislative strength effectively to deliver on public expectations.
