Budgam, Oct 20 (KNS): Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Monday said he is confident that Member of Parliament Aga Ruhullah Mehdi will support the National Conference candidate in the upcoming Budgam assembly by-election.

Speaking to reporters after Aga Mehmood filed his nomination papers, Abdullah noted that the candidate has indicated he expects backing from Aga Ruhullah Mehdi. The Chief Minister did not provide further comment beyond the candidate’s statement.

Abdullah also discussed the nomination process for the Budgam seat. He said the party president held discussions with senior leaders before finalizing Aga Mehmood as the candidate.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel“The decision was taken after reviewing the timing of nominations from other parties and coordinating internally,” he said.

On the Nagrota by-election, Abdullah said the Congress party had the option to field a candidate. When Congress chose not to, the National Conference nominated Shamim Begum, who submitted her nomination on Monday.

The Chief Minister emphasized that the nominations were completed strategically and in accordance with electoral timelines. He added that most parties submitted their nomination papers on the last day, and the National Conference made its decisions in line with the overall schedule.(KNS).