J-K Polls: Political negotiating begins for N

J&K / New Delhi: Giving shape to the contours of its relationship with the National Conference, Sonia Gandhi met Jammu and Kashmir leaders Saifuddin Soz and Ghulam Nabi Azad knowing that the meeting holds the key to government formation in the state.

The Congress is working at the best for itself and so it is not averse to the idea of sharing power. The party wants to retain the J-K model, which means a power-sharing term, but wants to give the regional party the first chance

Ghulam Nabi Azad said, "We will first confer with the Congress President and then tell you who we are forming a government with."

Rahul Gandhi was not present at the meeting but his stamp was very much there. His closeness to Omar Abdullah is believed to be a clincher in the Congress backing the younger man and not father Farooq for the top job.

"As far as Rahul is concerned, yes he is a friend of mine, but politics does not form a part of our relationship. I have not had a conversation with Rahul about what is happening in Jammu and Kashmir. That is not to suggest that I won't," said Omar Abdullah.

Sources say that the divisive campaign of the PDP would be a baggage in the Lok Sabha elections, which is why a National Conference with a young fresh chief minister would help it. Omar Abdullah is now in Delhi waiting for the crucial call from the Congress and the Congress hopes to package its support for the National Conference as its vote for stability in the state.

Knowing that it is in a powerful position as kingmaker in the state, Congress does not want to let go of any opportunity to enjoy a slice of the pie, which is why late into the night on Monday, the party was trying to find out what would be the best possible situation for it.

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