The Congress began its election campaign from the border town of Baramulla today assuring people that it would bring the Kashmir issue to a logical end and work for the restoration of peace and stability, if voted to power.Addressing partyworkers at the rally, J-K PCC chief Ghulam Nabi Azad said in the contest between the party and the BJP, it is necessary for the Congress to win a seat from the Valley. ‘‘We want representation from Kashmir on the national level. If you will vote for our candidate in Baramulla, he will not only represent Baramulla but also the entire Valley,’’ said Azad.He said credit for the dialogue with Kashmiri leadership should never go to a single party. ‘‘Three years ago when the armies of India and Pakistan were standing in an eyeball-to-eyeball position on borders, it was our party which advocated resolution of all issues through the peace process,’’ he said. Azad said the BJP raises slogans of peace with Kashmiri leadership and Pakistan at election time. ‘‘If Congress will come to power, we will bring Kashmir issue to its logical end,’’ said Azad.‘‘In this elections, BJP is trying to portray the secular face, otherwise, the party is known for its communal politics. They can’t fool people anymore now,’’ he said.Attacking the PDP, Azad said though the Congress has a strong base in Srinagar and Anantnag districts it still decided not to contest from both places. ‘‘Being a coalition partner in the government, PDP should have vacated the Baramulla seat for the Congress candidate who has a strong following in Baramulla and Kupwara districts,’’ he said, adding that they will campaign against the PDP in Baramulla despite being allies. Consumer Affairs Minister Taj Mohiuddin said the NC’s efforts to make the women’s Bill an election issue would fail. Earlier, the Congress candidate for Baramulla, Ghulam Rasool Kar, filed his nomination papers, flanked by senior party leaders.
