NQ News /Baramulla
05 April :Fresh political developments are unfolding in Baramulla amid reports that former MLA Sohaib Nabi Lone is considering joining the Jammu and Kashmir Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
Sohaib Lone, son of former minister Ghulam Nabi Lone, who was killed by militants in Srinagar in 2004 entered electoral politics with a notable victory in a by-election as an independent candidate, defeating PDP’s Javid Ahmad Baig. However, he later contested the 2008, 2014, 2019, and 2024 Assembly elections, as well as the District Development Council (DDC) elections in 2020, but did not secure a win in these subsequent contests.
Pertinently, Lone secured around 10,000 votes in the 2024 Assembly elections while contesting on a platform associated with Engineer Rashids AIP. Political observers believe that a significant share of these votes may have been influenced more by the prevailing “Engineer Rashid wave” than by Lone’s individual political base.
According to sources, a delegation of Lone’s supporters met PDP president Mehbooba Mufti at her Srinagar office earlier today, urging her to facilitate his entry into the party fold. A member of the delegation, speaking on condition of anonymity, claimed that no positive assurance was given during the meeting.
Instead, Mehbooba Mufti is said to have reiterated the sacrifices and steadfastness of the party’s existing leadership in Baramulla. She reportedly emphasized that local leaders stood firm during some of the most challenging periods, particularly when many others distanced themselves from the party. She also indicated that any decision regarding new inductions would be taken only after due consultation with the district leadership.
Meanwhile, insiders suggest that the current PDP leadership in Baramulla, led by District President Mohd Rafique Rather, may strongly oppose any such move. Rather, a former trade union leader turned politician, joined the PDP in 2022 after opting for premature retirement from government service. Known for his articulate approach and intellectual grounding, he has emerged as a prominent and respected face of the party in the district.
Observers also underline that Lone’s frequent shifts in political affiliations have contributed to a perception of inconsistency. Over the years, he has been associated with almost all regional political formations, including the Indian National Congress, which has added to the skepticism surrounding his long-term political positioning.
Political observers believe that if the PDP proceeds with Lone’s induction, it could trigger internal discontent, potentially raising serious questions about internal cohesion, leadership priorities, and organizational credibility. Notably, the PDP has in the past faced criticism for allegedly sidelining loyalists, a factor many analysts believe cost the party heavily in previous elections.
Keeping these concerns in view, the party has reportedly constituted a high-level committee headed by senior leader Mehboob Beg to deliberate on such crucial matters. Sources indicate that several senior leaders who had earlier distanced themselves from the party are now contemplating a return, but are finding it challenging due to the political space already occupied by newer entrants.
Moreover, observers note that such a move appears unlikely at this stage, particularly given the standing, influence, and grassroots connect of District President Mohd Rafique Rather. With considerable social acceptance and a strong organizational base in Baramulla, his position within the party is seen as a significant factor in any decision of this nature.
While no official statement has been issued so far, the situation continues to evolve, with party insiders and observers closely watching how the PDP leadership navigates this delicate and potentially consequential political moment.(NQ News)
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