Srinagar – In a significant development ahead of the Rajya Sabha elections in Jammu and Kashmir, Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) President Mehbooba Mufti has announced her party's support for the National Conference (NC). The decision, revealed on October 23, 2025, comes after direct appeals from NC leader Farooq Abdullah, and is aimed at preventing the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) from gaining influence in the region.

Mufti stated that despite a history of distrust between the two parties, the need to protect the rights of the people of Jammu and Kashmir and to further the goals of the INDIA alliance, necessitated the move. "Dr. Farooq Abdullah called me and asked for support in the Rajya Sabha elections," Mufti said, emphasizing that the decision was made in the interest of the region.

The NC's decision to independently contest all four Rajya Sabha seats had initially caused discontent within the INDIA bloc, leading to the Congress party's withdrawal from the race. However, the support from PDP bolsters the NC's position as the elections approach on October 24.

The support is not without context. Earlier, Mufti had offered conditional support to the NC, suggesting that her party would consider backing the NC if they supported two bills in the Assembly. These bills included the ‘Anti-Bulldozer Law', designed to protect long-term occupants of state and grazing lands from eviction, and the Regularisation of Daily Wagers Bill. Mufti emphasized that these bills are "pro-people and not politically motivated," and are meant for the welfare of the people.

Chief Minister Omar Abdullah responded positively, stating that his party would not obstruct the passage of any pro-people legislation. He clarified that the Speaker of Jammu & Kashmir has the authority to decide on such Bills and that his party would not become a hurdle in the passage of any pro-people legislation.

The NC has been actively working to consolidate support from regional parties and independent candidates to prevent any gains by the BJP. CM Omar Abdullah expressed confidence that the NC would win all four seats and thanked independent MLAs for their participation in devising a strategy for the upcoming elections. He also addressed Congress's absence, clarifying that the party held its own session but has consistently said it would not allow the BJP to succeed.

Sajjad Lone, head of Peoples Conference and Handwara legislator, has stated he will abstain from voting.

The Rajya Sabha elections in Jammu and Kashmir are taking place amid heightened political activity, with all parties vying for influence in the region. The PDP's support for the NC marks a significant development that could impact the outcome of the elections and the political landscape of Jammu and Kashmir.