A controversy emerged within the National Conference (NC)-Congress alliance in Jammu and Kashmir after former J&K Congress chief Vikar Rasool Wani accused the NC of “sucking the blood” of the people.
The Congress swiftly condemned the remarks, with JKPCC President Tariq Karra criticising the “derogatory” and “unparliamentary” language used by Wani during a program in Banihal.
Karra emphasised that the Congress strongly disassociates itself from such comments, reaffirming respect for NC’s leadership, including the late Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah and Farooq Abdullah.
“The INC and NC are united in fighting the upcoming elections in alliance against the BJP and will continue to work for the dignity and rights of the people of J&K,” Karra said.
He urged all political figures to maintain decorum in public discourse, reiterating the alliance’s commitment to stand against the BJP’s divisive politics.
On Sunday, during a rally in Banihal, Wani, a two-time legislator seeking a third term, took aim at the NC, accusing them of exploiting the people of Banihal and suggesting that the red in their party flag symbolises the blood of the people. He also challenged NC leaders, including Farooq and Omar Abdullah, to debate him on their contributions to the region’s development.
NC president Farooq Abdullah downplayed Wani’s remarks, stating, “Let him say whatever he wants. His party stands with us, and God willing, the alliance will remain intact even without him.”
The Congress and NC forged a pre-poll alliance for Assembly polls. As per the agreement, Congress is contesting 32 seats in the 90-member J&K assembly, NC, on 51, and there would be a friendly fight on five.
Banihal is one of the five seats, where both NC and Congress have field candidates, and NC’s Sajjad Shaheen is competing against Wani.
