Srinagar: National Conference (NC) Vice President Omar Abdullah has accused the People's Democratic Party (PDP) of "imitating" their manifesto and urged the Mehbooba Mufti-led party to refrain from fielding candidates against the NC-Congress alliance in the upcoming Jammu and Kashmir assembly elections. Speaking at a public event in Ganderbal, Abdullah pointed out the similarities between the manifestos of the two parties.

"They (PDP) should've created a different manifesto. We talked about providing 200 units of free electricity, and they did too. We promised one lakh jobs, and they did the same. We advocated for reopening blocked roads, and that is also in their manifesto. We discussed the need for open dialogue, and they included that as well. Everything in the National Conference's manifesto is also present in their (PDP's) manifesto," Abdullah stated.

He further urged the PDP not to field candidates against the NC-Congress alliance, particularly since Mehbooba Mufti had expressed willingness to support the alliance if it aligned with the PDP's agenda. "They (PDP) said that if NC and Congress agree with their manifesto, then they will not launch their candidates. Now that our entire agenda is in your manifesto, there is no difference between our agendas, so you should withdraw your candidates from the election," Abdullah added.

Earlier, Mehbooba Mufti had indicated that the PDP would support the NC-Congress alliance if their agenda was accepted. She highlighted that the BJP's actions, including the abrogation of Article 370, had complicated issues in Jammu and Kashmir and that any alliance should have a clear agenda.

The NC's manifesto includes the restoration of the political and legal status of Jammu and Kashmir, striving to reinstate Article 370-35A and statehood, providing up to 200 units of free electricity, creating a comprehensive job package for youth, and encouraging dialogue between India and Pakistan. The PDP, in a similar manifesto released after the NC, also emphasized the restoration of Articles 370 and 35A, diplomatic initiatives between India and Pakistan, and ensuring the dignified return of Kashmiri Pandits to the valley.

Polling in Jammu and Kashmir will take place in three phases on September 18, 25, and October 1, with the counting of votes scheduled for October 4. These elections mark the first assembly polls in Kashmir since the abrogation of Article 370.

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