Srinagar, September 10: Ghulam Qadir Lone, General Secretary of Jamaat-e-Islami (JeI), has firmly denied any connection between the party and the BJP. In a recent statement, Lone dismissed rumors of his interest in winning or losing against the BJP, emphasizing that JeI’s electoral participation is not focused on competing with them.
Lone clarified JeI’s stance on elections, stating that the party had previously abstained due to concerns over electoral fraud. “We refrained from contesting elections until we received assurances of transparency,” he explained. He noted that their decision to participate in elections, particularly after the 2024 parliamentary election, followed proof of fairness.
In response to claims that the party lacks public support, Lone confidently asserted that JeI continues to enjoy significant backing, despite attempts by some to portray otherwise.
Addressing their election strategy, Lone highlighted the party’s primary goal: supporting individuals who can assist in efforts to lift the ongoing ban on JeI. “We backed former members who contested elections, hoping they could aid us in this matter,” he added.(KNS)