No Commitment Yet from Congress on NC‑Led Government

Srinagar, August 27 – The Jammu and Kashmir chapter of the Congress party publicly stated on Thursday that it has not finalized a stance on joining the cabinet of Chief Minister Umar Abdullah. The declaration was prompted by several news outlets reporting that the National Conference was seeking Congress participation in its government. Dr. Sayeed Nasir Hussain, the party’s regional secretary, emphasized that no decision has been taken concerning ministerial entry. While earlier reports hinted at a single ministerial seat being offered to Congress, insiders reveal that the party is pushing for two slots and is open to dialogue regarding the second one. If the NC is unwilling to meet this request, Congress is looking for a dignified arrangement for at least one of its members. Moreover, the state unit is demanding the establishment of a coordination committee with allied parties to safeguard its influence in any coalition arrangement. According to reliable sources, local Congress officials have already discussed the terms of joining the government with NC representatives and are now waiting for a formal response. Chief Minister Umar Abdullah previously announced that any cabinet reshuffle would be scheduled after August 15, aiming to reassign portfolios and induct new officials to strengthen governance. The composition of the 90‑member assembly includes 41 NC members, 29 from the BJP, six Congress MLAs, four PDP representatives, one CPI(M) lawmaker, one from the People’s Conference, one Awami Ittehad Party member, one AAP representative and six independents. Currently, six Congress legislators, the CPI(M) member and two independents support the NC‑led administration.