National Conference Releases Election Manifesto

The National Conference (NC) has released its manifesto for the upcoming Jammu and Kashmir Assembly elections, promising to restore Articles 370 and 35A, statehood, and implement the autonomy resolution of 2000. The manifesto also outlines plans to redraw the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Act, 2019, and ensure the release of political prisoners and the rehabilitation of Kashmiri Pandits. Union Minister G Kishan Reddy dismissed these promises, stating that neither NC nor Congress is likely to come to power. Omar Abdullah, NC's vice-president, indicated his participation in the elections despite earlier reluctance, citing pressure from the party and concerns over his father's health. The elections will be held in three phases, starting September 18, with results announced on October 4.