Congress-NC alliance in Jammu and Kashmir

Senior Congress leader Pawan Khera fiercely countered Home Minister Amit Shah's criticisms of the Congress-National Conference (NC) alliance in Jammu and Kashmir, highlighting the BJP's past alliances with controversial parties like the People's Democratic Party (PDP). Khera reminded Shah of the BJP-PDP coalition's history, including proposals for dialogue with separatist groups and validating Pakistan’s currency. He accused Shah of trying to deflect attention from the BJP's own record, stating that the party's governance has led to significant security issues in the region. Meanwhile, Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath and other BJP leaders raised concerns over national security regarding the alliance, while Mehbooba Mufti expressed her backing for the Congress-NC coalition if they adopt the PDP's agenda. The National Conference and Congress alliance, which aims to contest all 90 J&K seats, emphasizes restoring statehood and democratic rights, amid fears from the BJP about the impact on national integrity. The assembly elections are set for September and October.