In a move that could reshape the political landscape in Jammu and Kashmir, the Awami Ittehad Party (AIP) and the banned Jamaat-e-Islami (JeI) announced a pre-poll alliance ahead of the upcoming Assembly elections on Sunday. The alliance is seen as a significant challenge to the region’s traditional parties, such as the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the National Conference (NC).

Describing the collaboration as a “strategic alliance,” an AIP spokesperson said the partnership is aimed at advancing the interests of the people of Jammu and Kashmir. The deal was sealed following a meeting between AIP chief and Member of Parliament Engineer Rashid and a delegation from JeI, led by Ghulam Qadir Wani. Though JeI is banned from contesting elections directly, it has fielded independent candidates.

The alliance will see AIP supporting JeI-backed candidates in Kulgam and Pulwama, while JeI will support AIP candidates across other constituencies in Kashmir. Both parties have agreed to a “friendly contest” in areas like Langate, Devsar, and Zainapora, while mutual support will be extended elsewhere to strengthen their electoral prospects.