Congress Stays Out of Omar Abdullah's Government, Two Key Reasons Behind the Decision

Today, October 16, 2024, is a pivotal day in Jammu and Kashmir’s politics, as Omar Abdullah of the National Conference is set to take the oath as the first Chief Minister of the Union Territory following the abrogation of Article 370. However, just ahead of the swearing-in ceremony, the Congress party made a surprising decision to not join the government, though it will continue to provide outside support. This comes after the National Conference-Congress alliance secured victory in the recent assembly elections. The swearing-in will take place at 11:30 AM at the Sher-e-Kashmir International Convention Centre, with Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha administering the oath to Omar Abdullah and his ministers. Congress leaders Mallikarjun Kharge, Rahul Gandhi, and Priyanka Gandhi will be in attendance, despite the party's unexpected decision to stay out of the government. There are speculations about Congress’s move, with two possible reasons emerging. First, Congress is reportedly unhappy with being offered just one ministerial position in the new government, as the party had hoped for two. Some believe this is a strategic decision to pressure the BJP. Second, Congress may be reflecting on its poor performance in the elections, having won only six seats, and does not want to reward its leaders with ministerial positions after such a disappointing result.