Srinagar, Aug 26 (State Correspondents): In a significant political development ahead of the proposed expansion and reshuffle of the Jammu and Kashmir Council of Ministers, the ruling National Conference (NC) has extended a fresh offer to alliance partner Congress to join the Omar Abdullah-led government.
Top sources revealed that the NC leadership has officially conveyed its willingness to accommodate Congress in the ministerial team. The matter was recently taken up with All India Congress Committee (AICC) General Secretary in-charge for J&K, Syed Naseer Hussain. Hussain reportedly assured the NC leadership that a formal response would follow after consultations with the Congress high command.
During his recent visit to the Union Territory, Hussain held preliminary discussions regarding the offer with the local J&K Congress leadership. However, the party remains indecisive on whether to accept the ministerial berths.
Key Context:
- Past Impasse: During the government formation in October 2024, the NC had offered one cabinet berth to the Congress, which was turned down as the Congress demanded two.
- Statehood Stance: Following the initial disagreement, the Congress had publicly declared it would stay out of the council of ministers until full statehood is restored to Jammu and Kashmir.
- Cabinet Limit: Under the Jammu & Kashmir Reorganisation Act, the council of ministers cannot exceed 10% of the total Assembly strength, capping the cabinet at a maximum of nine ministers, including the Chief Minister.
With Chief Minister Omar Abdullah preparing to finalize the expansion of his cabinet, all eyes are now on the Congress high command’s decision on whether to revise its previous stance or continue offering outside support.
