Jammu, Oct 20 (KNS): Jammu and Kashmir’s ruling National Conference (NC) has announced that it will contest the upcoming by-elections in Nagrota and Budgam on issues affecting residents, with the reinstatement of statehood for the Union Territory highlighted as a key concern.

Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary expressed confidence that voters in both constituencies would support NC nominees, reinforcing the position of party president Farooq Abdullah and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah.

For the bypolls scheduled on November 11, the NC has nominated District Development Council member Shamim Begum for Nagrota and former minister Agha Syed Mehmood for Budgam. The Nagrota seat became vacant following the death of BJP legislator Devender Singh Rana last year, while Budgam opened up after Chief Minister Omar Abdullah retained Ganderbal in the 2024 Assembly elections.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel

Speaking to media at the party headquarters before accompanying Begum to file her papers, Choudhary highlighted the government’s focus on public issues and noted the reinstatement of the Darbar Move as a major step to assist local traders and business communities. The practice, which shifts government offices between Srinagar and Jammu, had been discontinued by the previous administration.

Choudhary also criticized the BJP for relying on divisive narratives, urging voters to prioritize development and support NC candidates. Minister Javed Rana added that the party’s cadre-driven approach ensures strong public backing and said the electorate is likely to back the Abdullah-led administration.

Begum later submitted her nomination documents in Nagrota, accompanied by supporters and senior party leaders, including the deputy chief minister.(KNS).