PAGD announces seat-sharing arrangements for DDC polls in J and K; NC to contest 21 seats in Kashmir

People's Alliance for Gupkar Declaration (PAGD), an amalgam of seven political parties in Jammu and Kashmir seeking restoration of erstwhile state's special status, anunced seat-sharing arrangement for first phase of maiden District Development Council (DDC) polls in Union Territory on Thursday, but did t release names of candidates.

seat-sharing arrangement was shared with media after candidates of constituent parties of alliance filed ir mination papers, last date for which was Thursday.

PAGD, which has National Conference (NC) and People's Democratic Party (PDP) as its constituents, was formed last month to fight for restoration of special status of erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir, which was revoked by Centre in August last year.

members of alliance anunced last week that y would unitedly fight DDC polls, which will be held for first time in Union Territory.

PAGD seat-sharing list was approved by NC president Farooq Abdullah, who is chairman of alliance. NC is contesting 21 of 27 seats in Kashmir valley, PDP, led by Mehbooba Mufti, is contesting four, while Saj Lone-led People's Conference (PC) will field candidates in two seats for first phase. alliance, however, did t reveal names of candidates contesting first phase of polls.

A PAGD leer said given paucity of time, names of candidates could t be shared.

"We all h to work at a breakneck speed. We will update names of candidates later because y were busy with filing of minations today," he said.

PAGD has decided to put up joint candidates of its constituent parties in election, but will contest on respective party symbols as a single symbol could t be granted to alliance.

polls to DDCs will be held in eight phases from vember 28 to December 24, according to a tification issued by State Election Commission.