J&K polls: JeI denies any broader electoral alliance

Srinagar, Sep 23: In a significant political development, Jamaat-e-Islami (JeI) on Monday said that there will be no electoral alliance anywhere, saying that alliance in South Kashmir remains separate and has nothing to do with further strategies.
Jamaat announced their move, when polls are all set to take place in the second as well as third phase – 25 September and 01 October respectively.
Former President JeI Ghulam Qadir Wani, speaking to reporters announced support to Haji Manzoor Ahmed Kaloo, an independent candidate and former Hurriyat leader, who is contesting the upcoming assembly election from Sopore.
Wani said that the organisation has historically distanced itself from elections due to instances of rigging in the past.
“The rigging that took place in the past drove many towards extremism. Now, Jamaat is determined to participate in and support democratic institutions to uphold trust in democracy,” Wani said, citing the examples of Mohammed Yousef Shah, who later became Syed Salahuddin, a key figure in Kashmir’s insurgency.
Wani clarified that Jamaat is determined to fight its battle democratically, pushing against the challenges it faces, including long-standing ban on the organisation.
However, he denied any broader electoral alliance beyond, stating that the alliance in South Kashmir remains separate.
Meanwhile, contesting candidate Manzoor Ahmed expressed gratitude to Jamaat for its support and reiterated his commitment to challenge the ban on the organisation. “I have been with the Jamaat earlier. I am contesting elections to fight against the ban and work towards the release of those languishing in jails,” he said.
It’s noteworthy that earlier JeI and AIP joined hands, in what they call a strategic alliance to advocate for the people of Jammu and Kashmir. “AIP will back JeI candidates in Kulgam and Pulwama, while AIP candidates across Kashmir,” AIP’s Chief spokesperson Inam had said.
Similarly, JeI’s panel member and Spokesperson Shamim Ahmed then said that they will be contesting the friendly contest on a few seats including Devsar, Zainapora and Langate in specific, adding that Jamaat won’t withdraw any of their candidates. (KNO)