J&K: BJP, PDP talks in final stage, government formation likely after Delhi polls

Srinagar: It seems that a deal has finally been struck between the Peoples Democratic Party and Bharatiya Janata Party - the two biggest parties in the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly - for government formation in the state.

Sources say BJP has no objection to PDP patron Mufti Muhammad Sayeed becoming Chief Minister first but it wants the post to be rotational. BJP also want the Deputy CM and Home Minister's post. PDP on its part wants a promise on repealing the Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA) and a clear stand on Article 370 while BJP is playing it safe on the controversial issues.

PDP has also asked for a Common Minimum Program for governance in the state. As part of the deal, PDP chief Mehbooba Mufti may be inducted in the Cabinet in the Centre.

"We are meeting together to sort the strategy of Rajya sabha seats of J&K. Dr Jitendra Singh is coming and we will sit together and sort out for Rajya Sabha seats," said BJP leader Nirmal Singh.

PDP spokesperson Naeem Akhtar said, "A seat sharing arrangement is there, if everything goes well. This will create level of comfort between the two parties."

Earlier, BJP leader Ram Madhav met newly elected party MLAs to discuss about the government formation. "I don't know whether Jitendra Singh is meeting Mehbooba Mufti but we are in process to form a stable government in J&K," Nirmal Singh added.

Although there are no formal talks but the parties are expected to talk on government structure in the coming week.

The government formation in state is likely to take place after the February 7 Delhi assembly elections. According to sources the BJP and PDP may possibly form government in the second or third week of February. Both PDP and BJP are trying to clear the last obstacles before coming together. The two parties are fighting the Rajya Sabha elections scheduled on February 7 together.

Reacting on the development, National Panthers Party leader Bhim Singh said, "PDP and BJP cannot come together. We have already said Panthers Party who has been defeated is still on top. No doubt BJP has won 25 seats but people are not going to accept the party. This drama which happened will be known after Delhi elections. This is not going to work. J&K should be ready for new elections."

PDP emerged as single largest party with 28 seats followed by BJP winning 25 seats.