Who will be NC’s candidate for Budgam by-election?

Srinagar, Oct 2: As the Election Commission of India is all set to announce the schedule for the Budgam by-election, all eyes are on who will be the National Conference’s candidate for the prestigious Central Kashmir seat.
Sources said that the National Conference is considering a few names, but Chief Minister Omar Abdullah’s trusted lieutenant and advisor, Nasir Aslam Wani, is the frontrunner for the ticket. “Nasir Aslam Wani would be the candidate if other NC leaders from Budgam are on board,” they said, adding that the internal dynamics of the party in Budgam remain fluid.
Sitting MP Aga Ruhullah Mehdi, who has locked horns with the party leadership over issues ranging from Article 370 to reservation rationalisation, is not yet part of any discussion regarding the party’s candidate for Budgam.
“NC leadership is yet to consult him on the matter,” they added.
They also disclosed that Aga Mehmood, another NC leader with a sizeable vote bank in the segment, is eyeing a Rajya Sabha berth. “Chances of him getting the RS ticket are slim, but his candidature for the Budgam by-election cannot be ruled out,” they said.
It is worthwhile to mention that the by-election is being held after Omar Abdullah vacated the seat last year to retain Ganderbal, a traditional bastion of his family. (KNO)