In a major political development, the Peoples Conference (PC), Justice Development Front (JDF), and Peoples Democratic Front (PDF) have united to form a new coalition named the “People’s Alliance for Change” (PAC). This strategic alliance comes on the heels of increasing demands from the Omar Abdullah-led government and various opposition parties, including the PDP, for the early restoration of statehood to Jammu and Kashmir.
The announcement was made during a press conference in Srinagar, where key leaders from the three parties outlined their vision for the alliance. Sajad Gani Lone, chief of the Peoples Conference, emphasized that the coalition seeks to provide a viable alternative for the people of JK, who have faced significant hardships over the years. “The people of Jammu and Kashmir have endured immense suffering, and we are committed to driving change. The current political landscape is barren, and our alliance offers a viable alternative,” Sajad Lone said.
Joining him at the press conference was senior Shia Muslim leader Imran Raza Ansari, who highlighted the necessity of collaboration among political entities to effectively serve the populace. Shamim Ahmad Thokar, President of the Justice and Development Front, echoed this sentiment, asserting that unity is essential for success. The leaders announced that the organizational structure of the alliance would be revealed soon, with a commitment to work collectively for the democratic rights of the people of Jammu and Kashmir. They aim to address what they describe as a “crisis of leadership and accountability” in the UT.
The formation of PAC is particularly noteworthy given its potential to emerge as a significant opposition force against the ruling National Conference-led alliance, which dominated the recent 2024 assembly elections. The Peoples Conference has historically held a strong voter base in Kashmir, while the Justice and Development Front, backed by Jamaat-e-Islami (JeI), has also influenced the political landscape, particularly in South Kashmir.
Despite recent electoral setbacks for some leaders within the alliance—such as Imran Raza Ansari’s narrow defeat in Pattan and Hakeem Yasin’s loss in Khansahib—the coalition aims to consolidate its position and challenge established political rivals in the Valley. In recent years, particularly following the events of August 2019, numerous political parties have emerged in Jammu and Kashmir. Notably, Altaf Bukhari’s Apni Party gained traction but failed to secure any seats in subsequent parliamentary and assembly elections despite backing from the BJP. Many leaders from the Apni Party have since returned to the PDP.
As the National Conference solidifies its position as a dominant force in the Kashmir Valley, questions arise regarding whether this new alliance can make a tangible impact in upcoming elections or if it will meet a fate similar to that of Bukhari’s party. As observers closely monitor how quickly PAC can resonate with the electorate, its ability to garner support will be critical in determining its future. Whether this alliance can extend its influence into the Jammu region remains uncertain, but its formation undoubtedly represents a pivotal moment in Jammu and Kashmir’s evolving political landscape.
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