Amid reports of a potential rift between the National Conference (NC) and Congress in Jammu and Kashmir, Omar Abdullah, who is set to be sworn in as the first Chief Minister of the Union Territory, has assured that relations between the two parties remain intact. Abdullah dismissed speculation of discord, stating that discussions between the allies were ongoing, particularly over the composition of the new cabinet.

Speaking to PTI, Abdullah addressed concerns raised by the Congress, which had expressed dissatisfaction over being offered just one cabinet position, after initially demanding three. The party hinted it might opt to provide external support instead of participating directly in the government if their requests were not met.

“Congress is not out of the cabinet. It’s for them to decide. We are in discussions, but as a Union Territory with a unicameral house, the size of the government is severely restricted,” Abdullah said, noting that the large cabinets of the past are no longer feasible. He referenced a time when there were 40-45 ministers, but emphasized that those days were gone, citing constraints that limit the number of ministerial appointments.

Despite the Congress’ concerns, Abdullah remained optimistic about the alliance’s future. “If all was not well, Kharge ji, Rahul ji, and senior Congress leaders would not be here. Their presence shows the alliance is strong, and we will work together for the people,” he stated.

Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi, party president Mallikarjun Kharge, and Priyanka Gandhi arrived in Srinagar to attend Abdullah’s swearing-in ceremony, indicating their continued support for the alliance. However, the Congress has yet to confirm whether it will accept the offered single cabinet berth or provide outside support. The party recently appointed Ghulam Ahmad Mir as its Legislature Party leader in Jammu and Kashmir, a signal of its preparations for a role in the newly formed government.

Abdullah will take his oath of office and secrecy at the Sher-i-Kashmir International Convention Centre (SKICC) in Srinagar today at 11:30 am, with Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha administering the ceremony. The National Conference-Congress alliance secured victory in the first assembly elections since the abrogation of Article 370, which stripped Jammu and Kashmir of its statehood and special status.