Srinagar, May 6: The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) on Wednesday strongly rebutted the National Conference’s (NC) criticism over the recent Rajya Sabha voting outcome, terming the allegations as “misplaced” and a diversion from more pressing issues.
In a post on X, PDP leader and MLA Pulwama Waheed-ur-Rehman Parra said the controversy was being used to shift focus from substantive concerns, including the Siraj-ul-Aloom issue and the alleged sidelining of Urdu from official records.
Parra asserted that the PDP was under no obligation to support the NC, particularly in light of recent political developments. He accused the NC of weakening opposition unity by dismantling the People’s Alliance for Gupkar Declaration (PAGD) and excluding the PDP from the INDIA alliance arrangement during the J&K Assembly elections.
“Despite this, the PDP extended unconditional support, even while being aware of internal dissent within the NC,” he said, adding that blaming the PDP for the Rajya Sabha outcome was both “inaccurate and counterproductive.”
He further stated that PDP chief Mehbooba Mufti acted in good faith by neither abstaining nor placing conditions on support, and had instead advised focusing on securing the third Rajya Sabha seat rather than turning the uncertain fourth seat into a “blame game.”
Highlighting procedural aspects, Parra noted that the Rajya Sabha voting process was transparent and that key responsibilities, including appointing agents, rested with the NC. He questioned the NC’s stance on trust, asking how it could doubt PDP members while expecting confidence in any PDP-appointed agent.
The PDP leader also referred to past instances, including remarks by NC MP Aga Ruhullah, alleging lack of clear communication within the party during previous elections, and questioned the NC’s internal coherence.
Parra warned that targeting the PDP could undermine broader political unity in Jammu and Kashmir and potentially benefit rival political forces. He added that such actions risk eroding trust built through “good faith support.”
Concluding his remarks, Parra urged the NC leadership to focus on governance rather than attributing blame, stating that the responsibility lies with the ruling party to deliver effectively with its existing legislative strength.
