||Black and White Digital News||

||Tejveer Singh July 05 ,2024 ||

Jammu :The political landscape of Jammu and Kashmir is witnessing a significant shift as former legislators show a renewed interest in rejoining the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). Following the footsteps of Syed Basharat Bukhari, three more ex-legislators have initiated talks with the PDP leadership, exploring the possibility of a ‘Ghar Wapsi’ (homecoming) to their former political home.

Highly placed sources reveal that two former legislators from Rajouri district, including a prominent ex-minister from the previous PDP-BJP coalition government, have reestablished communication channels with PDP leaders. These discussions are aimed at paving their way back into the party fold. This development marks a notable turn of events since these legislators had defected to a regional party following the collapse of the PDP-BJP government.

The impetus for this potential realignment stems from the regional party’s disappointing performance in the recent Lok Sabha elections. Sources indicate that the lackluster electoral outcome has prompted these leaders to reconsider their political affiliations, sparking serious deliberations about rejoining their parent party. “Talks are underway, and a clearer picture is expected to emerge within a week,” sources disclosed, highlighting the fluid nature of these negotiations.

In addition to the two Rajouri legislators, another ex-legislator from North Kashmir has also approached the PDP leadership for a potential return. This legislator recently resigned from a regional party in the Kashmir Valley, further underscoring the shifting political tides within the region.

The PDP’s political journey has been tumultuous since June 2018. At its zenith, the party boasted five MPs (three in the Lok Sabha and two in the Rajya Sabha), along with 28 MLAs and 14 MLCs. It also had a robust grassroots organization. However, the party faced a significant exodus of senior leaders, including former ministers and legislators, after the BJP withdrew its support from the Mehbooba Mufti-led coalition government in mid-2018. Many of these defectors joined the Apni Party led by Altaf Bukhari or the Peoples Conference helmed by Sajjad Lone.

The potential return of these former legislators could signal a revitalization for the PDP, which has struggled to regain its footing in the post-coalition era. If successful, these reintegrations could bolster the party’s political clout and possibly restore some of its lost organizational strength.

As political dynamics continue to evolve in Jammu and Kashmir, the PDP’s efforts to reclaim its erstwhile leaders may play a crucial role in shaping the region’s future. With negotiations in progress and decisions pending, the coming weeks will be pivotal in determining whether the PDP can orchestrate a successful ‘Ghar Wapsi’ for its former stalwarts. This development not only underscores the fluid nature of political allegiances but also highlights the PDP’s enduring appeal amidst the changing political currents in Jammu and Kashmir.