Srinagar, Oct 24 – The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has accused the Congress of being a “puppet” of the ruling National Conference (NC) in Jammu and Kashmir, asserting that the party’s decisions are made in the “kitchen of Abdullahs.” This allegation arose following Congress’ announcement to support the NC ahead of the byelections for four Rajya Sabha seats in Jammu and Kashmir.

BJP MLA and Leader of the Opposition in the state assembly, Sunil Sharma, addressed reporters, stating that the Congress acts solely based on the directives from the Abdullah family, with decisions being approved from Delhi. He characterized the Congress as lacking independence, claiming that its support for the NC was anticipated.

Sharma also criticized the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), highlighting the joint announcement made by the PDP and NC to contest the elections together. He emphasized that these two families aim to monopolize political power in Jammu and Kashmir, particularly in the Kashmir region, preventing outsiders from entering politics.

He remarked, “Two families in Jammu and Kashmir want only their politics to continue,” suggesting that they unite whenever they perceive a threat to their political standing. Sharma further commented on their strategic maneuvering, stating, “They are very clever people and exhibited that cleverness yesterday.”

When questioned about the potential impact of abstentions during the Rajya Sabha voting on the BJP’s prospects, Sharma responded, “You decide, you analyze who will benefit,” while expressing confidence that the BJP would achieve its objectives.

In a statement released on Thursday, the Congress party confirmed its decision to support the NC, indicating a willingness to set aside differences in light of what they described as “paramount challenges.” The Congress emphasized that their alliance with the NC is primarily to unite against what they perceive as the BJP’s agenda of “atrocities and subjugation.”