Political Tremors: Jamaat-Backed JDF Abruptly Exits Gupkar Alliance, Citing Neglected Jammu Concerns

In a significant and highly anticipated political upheaval, the Jammu and Kashmir Democratic Front (JDF), a political outfit widely seen as Jamaat-backed and led by former MLA GM Bhaderwahi, has dramatically announced its withdrawal from the People's Alliance for Gupkar Declaration (PAC). This stunning departure comes merely four months after the JDF had allied itself with the formidable regional conglomerate, sending ripples through the political landscape of Jammu and Kashmir.

GM Bhaderwahi, the fiery chief of the JDF, wasted no time in articulating the reasons behind his party's exit.

He launched a scathing critique of the PAC, alleging that the alliance had veered off course, focusing exclusively on issues pertinent to the Kashmir Valley while conspicuously sidelining the crucial concerns of the Jammu region. Bhaderwahi passionately argued that the PAC had failed to address the aspirations and challenges faced by the people of Jammu, creating a growing chasm between its stated goals and actual operational focus.

Furthermore, Bhaderwahi highlighted a critical lack of transparency and clarity regarding seat-sharing arrangements for the upcoming assembly elections.

He asserted that despite repeated attempts, the JDF could not obtain definitive answers on how seats would be distributed among alliance partners, especially concerning Jammu constituencies. Adding to his accusations, the JDF chief questioned the PAC's commitment to its core agenda, expressing doubts about the sincerity of its efforts to restore Article 370 and 35A, which grant special status to Jammu and Kashmir.

He intimated that the alliance's actions did not align with its public declarations, leaving the JDF with no option but to disassociate itself.

However, the PAC was quick to issue a strong rebuttal through its spokesperson, M Y Tarigami. Tarigami categorically denied Bhaderwahi's allegations, presenting a contrasting narrative of the JDF's role within the alliance.

He clarified that the JDF had never been a formal, signatory member of the People's Alliance for Gupkar Declaration. Instead, he characterized the JDF's association as one of 'support,' implying a less formal and more peripheral role than Bhaderwahi's statements suggested.

Tarigami vehemently refuted claims that the PAC was neglecting Jammu's issues, stating emphatically that the alliance's foundational objective is the restoration of constitutional rights and special status for both Jammu and Kashmir.

He underscored the PAC's unwavering commitment to the people of both regions, asserting that their struggle is inclusive and holistic. He also dismissed the JDF's doubts about the alliance's sincerity regarding Article 370, reaffirming the PAC's steadfast dedication to its stated goals.

The People's Alliance for Gupkar Declaration was forged with the explicit purpose of advocating for the restoration of Article 370 and 35A, which were abrogated by the central government in August 2019.

Its formation was seen as a significant step towards creating a united front of regional political parties against the controversial decision. The JDF, under Bhaderwahi, had initially joined the PAC with the stated intention of safeguarding Jammu's distinct interests within this larger framework of regional autonomy.

The JDF's abrupt exit, merely months into its alliance with the PAC, undoubtedly casts a shadow over the unity and collective strength that the Gupkar Alliance has sought to project.

This development highlights the deep-seated regional differences and internal tensions that continue to simmer beneath the surface of Jammu and Kashmir's complex political landscape. It raises pertinent questions about the PAC's ability to maintain a cohesive front, especially as the region gears up for potential future elections, and underscores the ongoing challenges in forging a truly unified political voice across the diverse regions of Jammu and Kashmir.