Jammu: In a major blow to the National Conference (NC), Kuldeep Sharma, a close associate of President Farooq Abdullah joined the Bharatiya Janta Party ( BJP ) on Tuesday, September 10, days ahead of the first phase of the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly polls.

The leader joined the saffron party in the presence of   BJP senior leaders and Devender Singh Rana,  candidate for the Nagrota Assembly Constituency.

Sharma, a prominent face of Nagrota and a close associate of Farooq for almost 28 years said that there is no space left for upright, honest and public-spirited in the party. He added that dominating and discredited people are dominating the party.

"What can be ironic than the fact that persons having murder cases against them are chosen to represent the National Conference to contest the elections," he told reporters.

Sharma asserted that the party does not honour people with integrity hitting at the favours being bestowed upon persons of dubious character while giving a mandate.

Kuldeep assured his unflinching support to the BJP .  He was welcomed by the saffron party leaders. Rana said their entry into the party will strengthen its position ahead of upcoming assembly polls and will help to create more opportunities for the people of Nagrota.

Rana lauded the contribution of Sharma and others towards the development of the constituency and their commitment to public service and expressed confidence that their experience and stature would further enrich the BJP ranks.

As per reports, other leaders who joined the party include Madan Mohan Sharma District Secretary NC, Block Bhalwal, Chaman Lal Sharma, Balwan Singh, Rajinder Singh Langeh, and Sham Lal Sharma.