"I accept the verdict of the people…”: Mehbooba Mufti’s Daughter Iltija Mufti Concedes Defeat in J&K’s Srigufwara-Bijbehara Constituency

Iltija Mufti, the daughter of former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti and the People's Democratic Party (PDP) candidate for the Srigufwara-Bijbehara constituency, has conceded defeat. Trailing after the initial counting, Iltija acknowledged the outcome, marking a significant setback for her party, which has recorded one of its poorest electoral performances to date.

"I accept the verdict of the people. The love & affection I received from everyone in Bijbehara will always stay with me," said Iltija Mufti expressing her acceptance of the people's decision. She also extended her gratitude to her party workers for their efforts throughout the campaign.

Bashir Ahmad Shah Veeri from the National Conference is leading in the constituency, while BJP's Sofi Yousif held third place. Historically, Bijbehara has been considered a stronghold for the Mufti family.

Current trends indicate a tough race for the PDP, which is projected to win only about five seats, a drastic decline from the 28 seats it secured in the 2014 assembly polls. The alliance of the National Conference and Congress is leading with over 52 seats, surpassing the halfway mark, while the BJP is ahead with 26 seats. The 2024 assembly elections marked the first of its kind in a decade for Jammu and Kashmir and the first following the abrogation of Article 370.​