Safina Baig Nears Joining Jammu and Kashmir National Conference, Raising Political Stakes in North Kashmir

The possibility of Safina Baig, a prominent political figure in North Kashmir and former chairperson of the Baramulla District Development Council (DDC), joining the Jammu and Kashmir National Conference has heated up the political waters in the state. According to sources, Safina Baig and the National Conference leadership have been in constant touch and talks for the past few weeks, which have now reached a conclusive stage. Political circles are abuzz that Safina Baig has met several senior party leaders and is likely to formally join the National Conference in the coming days. However, Safina Baig has not made anything clear in this regard yet. She says a final decision will be taken soon. Safina Baig, an advocate by profession, is also a former chairperson of the Jammu and Kashmir Haj Committee. She is considered to have a strong political and social hold in North Kashmir, especially in Baramulla district. She won the 2024 District Development Council elections as an independent candidate and was also elected as the Speaker of the Legislative Assembly from the North DDC constituency of Baramulla.