Baramulla district development council ex-chairperson Safina Baig joins NC

Srinagar, Jul 8 (PTI) Former Baramulla District Development Council chairperson Safina Baig joined the ruling National Conference here on Wednesday. Safina Baig, wife of former deputy chief minister and Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) co-founder Muzaffar Hussain Baig, was inducted into the National Conference in the presence of party president Farooq Abdullah and Chief Minister and party vice-president Omar Abdullah. Safina had unsuccessfully contested the 2024 assembly elections as an Independent candidate from the Wagoora-Kreeri constituency in Baramulla. She had served as the chairperson of the Baramulla District Development Council and had also headed the Jammu and Kashmir Haj Committee. She was earlier associated with the PDP and Sajad Lone-led Peoples' Conference. Welcoming Safina into the party fold, Farooq Abdullah said that politics demands perseverance, courage, patience and wisdom, and that every political decision must be guided by foresight and a commitment to public welfare. "The National Conference is not merely a political party; it is a people's movement shaped by the sacrifices, struggles and aspirations of the people of Jammu and Kashmir," he said. Expressing confidence in her abilities, Abdullah said Safina's experience and commitment to public service would strengthen the party and contribute meaningfully to addressing the concerns of the people. Stressing that unity and collective resolve are imperative at a time when Jammu and Kashmir is passing through a critical phase, he said that despite numerous challenges, the people's government remains steadfast in its commitment to serving the public. Abdullah said the National Conference has consistently safeguarded the aspirations, identity and democratic rights of the people. "It was through the historic struggles of this party that democratic rights, educational opportunities and social justice reached the common people. The National Conference will continue to stand as the foremost defender of people's rights and aspirations," he said. Safina said she decided to join the party after careful thought and deep reflection. "I have not joined the National Conference in pursuit of any office or position. I have joined as an ordinary worker because I firmly believe that the National Conference remains the only credible political platform capable of genuinely representing the aspirations of the people and addressing their concerns," she said, adding that there is no alternative to the party in Jammu and Kashmir. She thanked the NC leadership for placing their trust in her and pledged to work tirelessly to strengthen the organisation and serve the people with dedication. PTI SSB RUK RUK