Jammu-Kashmir: Former Deputy CM Muzaffar Hussain Baig Returns To PDP After Three Years

In a significant political development, Muzaffar Hussain Baig, the former deputy chief minister of Jammu and Kashmir, has rejoined the People's Democratic Party (PDP) after a hiatus of over three years.

As reported by Indian Express, Baig, along with his wife Safeena, returned to the party during an event commemorating the eighth death anniversary of PDP founder Mufti Mohammad Sayeed.

The rejoining ceremony took place in the presence of PDP chief Mehbooba Mufti, with Baig offering prayers at Mufti Mohammad Sayeed’s grave in Anantnag district’s Bijbehara town.

However, Baig's return has sparked varied reactions within the party, with some viewing it as a strategic move to present a united front, while others express criticism for his stance on article 370 in 2020.

Addressing the gathering, Baig clarified that he had never truly left the party but had been "inactive", and reaffirmed his commitment to the agenda of resolving the challenges faced by Jammu and Kashmir.

Mehbooba Mufti, buoyed by Baig's return, urged the youth of the region not to lose hope, assuring them that "dark days will soon end".

Muzaffar Hussain Baig, a veteran associated with the PDP since 1998, left the party after the abrogation of article 370 in 2019.

His departure was linked to disagreements over seat distribution during the District Development Council elections, where Baig was reportedly unhappy with the allocation of seats.

After joining Sajad Lone’s Peoples Conference in March 2021, Baig was later expelled from the party.