Mushtaq Bala
In the ever-evolving political landscape of Jammu and Kashmir, a recent development has drawn attention, though not necessarily concern, from political observers. Several years after the abrogation of Article 370 in August 2019, a new political alliance has been announced comprising Sajad Lone’s People’s Conference (PC), the Jamaat-e-Islami-backed Justice and Development Front (JDF), and Hakeem Yaseen’s People’s Democratic Front (PDF).
This alliance, made public on Monday, is being projected by its constituents as a potential counterforce to the dominant National Conference (NC), which currently governs the Union Territory. However, most analysts agree that the alliance, while noteworthy in terms of symbolism, lacks the organizational strength, grassroots support, and cohesive vision to seriously challenge the NC either now or in the foreseeable future.
The National Conference, under the leadership of Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, remains deeply rooted in Jammu and Kashmir’s political fabric. After securing a decisive win in last year’s legislative assembly elections, the NC has not only regained political legitimacy but has also reinforced its mass base across the Valley. The BJP, despite deploying vast resources and a high-voltage campaign, failed to secure a foothold in the region—further strengthening the NC’s position as the primary political force.
In contrast, the newly formed coalition appears fragmented, ideologically diverse, and lacking a clear agenda. While the parties involved have their historical significance and loyal pockets of influence, their combined political muscle does not currently amount to a credible threat to the NC. The inclusion of a Jamaat-backed party adds complexity but also raises questions about ideological coherence and broader acceptability.
This lack of substantial opposition comes at a time when public sentiment towards traditional politics remains lukewarm. Years of unrest, governance failures, and shifting constitutional realities have left people disillusioned with slogans and rhetoric. Yet, amidst this environment of general political fatigue, Omar Abdullah stands out as a figure of relative trust and confidence.
Despite facing enormous challenges, Omar has managed to restore a sense of stability and direction. His straight-talking, no-nonsense approach to governance, combined with a focus on development and inclusivity, continues to resonate with large sections of the population. Observers note that “nothing seems to deter Omar Abdullah’s confidence,” and his calm, consistent leadership is seen as a key reason for the present government’s stability.
Unlike other political players who are still trying to find relevance post-Article 370, Omar has chosen to prioritize governance over grandstanding. His outreach to youth, emphasis on infrastructure, and measured political tone have contributed to his rising popularity. While other leaders resort to forging alliances and issuing declarations, Omar’s strategy remains grounded and effective—focused more on results than reactions.
It is also worth noting that the electorate in Jammu and Kashmir has become increasingly discerning. Mere formation of alliances no longer guarantees traction unless accompanied by clear policies, trust-building measures, and visible action. In this context, the PC-JDF-PDF coalition seems more like a political gesture than a transformative force.
The coming months will test not just the strength of this new alliance but also the public’s willingness to accept new alternatives. For now, though, the National Conference remains unshaken in its position, and Omar Abdullah continues to lead with poise and clarity. The political currents may shift in the future, but as it stands today, the newly announced coalition does not possess the weight to alter the current power structure in Jammu and Kashmir.
In the grand narrative of post-370 Kashmir, this alliance may be just another chapter—brief, symbolic, but unlikely to leave a lasting impact.
Mushtaq Bala is Editor-in-Chief of Kashmir Pen, an award-winning filmmaker, cultural commentator, and advocate for peace through narrative media.
