J&K government formation: NC sends letter supporting rival PDP; only verbal offer, says Omar

Srinagar: In a surprise development, National Conference (NC) has sent a letter extending support to People's Democratic Party (PDP) for government formation in Jammu and Kashmir. Besides, Jammu and Kashmir Governor NN Vohra has asked PDP and BJP to give plan for government formation by Saturday. At least two independent MLAs have assured their support to an NC-supported government of the PDP.

While NC leaders confirm the letter of support to rival PDP, outgoing chief minister Omar Abdullah refuted them and said the communication is just verbal.

The move by the NC of sending a letter of support is being in political circles as an attempt by it to keep the BJP from being a part of any government in the state.

NC sent the letter of support to its rival PDP after the latter asked for a formal assurance in this regard. NC had promised support to PDP but the latter had asked for a written commitment. Subsequently, NC has come out with a letter of support.

PDP is the single largest party in the 87-member Jammu and Kashmir Assembly with 28 MLAs. NC has 15 MLAs. The two together have 43 MLAs, just one short of the halfway mark.

It is learnt that three independent MLAs may support the PDP-NC government saying they would back a "secular" government in the state. Independent MLA Engineer Rashid said, "We are supporting any secular formation to keep the BJP away from power," and added that PDP must accept NC's offer.

NC has confirmed to CNN-IBN that it has extended unconditional support to PDP. Party leader Junaid Mattoo said NC has offered unconditional support formally. Party MLA from Nagrota in Jammu Devender Singh Rana, "We have announced support for PDP," and added that there have been no talks between the NC and BJP.

However, NC chief Omar Abdullah refuted the report about the letter of support. In a tweet, he said, "Looks like PDP is playing mind games with the BJP leaking about a letter of NC support that doesn't exist. Only a verbal offer conveyed."

NC is awaiting a response from PDP. If PDP accepts the support from NC, it would be a major setback for the BJP, which is in the process of government formation in the state.