Srinagar: In a major political move, the Awami Ittehad Party (AIP), led by Baramulla MP Sheikh Abdul Rashid, has formed an alliance with former members of Jamaat-e-Islami (JEI) for the upcoming Jammu and Kashmir Assembly elections. This collaboration aims to consolidate regional support and challenge mainstream political forces in the region.
The announcement came after a joint meeting in which AIP’s leadership, represented by spokesperson Inam Un Nabi, met with a delegation of former JEI members led by Ghulam Qadir Wani. Both sides expressed their shared commitment to addressing the concerns of Jammu and Kashmir’s populace and promoting peace and dignity in the region.
Despite the Indian government banning JEI in 2019 and extending the ban earlier this year, many influential former members are contesting the elections as independent candidates. The newly-formed alliance will see AIP and JEI-backed candidates supporting each other in key constituencies, with plans for a “friendly contest” in areas like Langate and Devsar.
With mutual backing in critical constituencies like Kulgam and Pulwama, the alliance is set to pose a strong challenge, aiming to bring unified leadership that reflects the region’s aspirations. Both parties emphasized the need for unity, given the rapidly changing political dynamics, and have called on their supporters to work collaboratively for success.
