Srinagar, Sept 11 (KINS): Former RAW Chief A.S. Daulat welcomed the participation of Jamaat-e-Islami (JeI) and Hurriyat leaders in the Assembly Elections, calling it a significant and positive development for Jammu and Kashmir.
He also stated that it is now time for “separatist” leader Mirwaiz Umar Farooq to join mainstream politics.
In a brief interview with the news agency KINS, Daulat remarked, “It is encouraging to see leaders from Jamaat and Hurriyat engaging in the electoral process. Mirwaiz, as a crucial figure and a separatist leader, should have made the shift to mainstream politics sooner. If he does not make this move now, it will represent a missed opportunity for both him and the government. New Delhi should have been more proactive in supporting his transition.”
On Rashid Engineer’s interim bail and its implications for the upcoming Assembly elections, Daulat offered a unique perspective.
He suggested that Rashid’s influence could be more impactful while in jail. “While outside, he risks being perceived merely as a proxy.
However, his presence in jail could amplify his influence, making him a more potent force,” Daulat observed.
When asked if he could predict the outcome of the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly elections, former RAW Chief A.S. Daulat expressed caution, noting the unpredictable nature of Kashmiri politics.
He acknowledged that the Congress and National Conference (NC) alliance is confident of forming the next government, but remained uncertain. “They are claiming they will form the government, but Kashmiri politics is hard to predict,” Daulat said.
He also commented on the BJP’s stance, stating, “If the BJP believes they can secure a majority, let’s see if they can actually form the government.”
Regarding the potential for smaller parties and independents to align with the BJP, Daulat emphasized that both the BJP and NC would need to secure at least 30 seats each to have a realistic chance of forming a government.
He suggested that the involvement of smaller parties and independents could play a key role, but major parties would still need to establish a strong foothold first.(KINS)
Jamaat, Hurriyat Leaders Joining Mainstream Politics a Positive Step, Time for Mirwaiz Umar Farooq to Follow: A.S. Daulat
