Discussion on how regional parties can take on BJP underway: Omar Abdullah

Former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah said on Saturday that talks with Mamata Banerjee are underway for a possible coalition to 'take on BJP in the general elections.'

"The question you asked about Mamata didi's proposal, is what we're discussing - how best can regional parties come together to take on BJP in general elections. No effort towards opposition unity will succeed unless Congress is able to fight BJP in the way we hope," Abdullah told ANI.

He further said that a number of efforts are being made by Congress' Sonia Gandhi to get the parties together.

"It's an ongoing conversation. You have seen a number of efforts made particularly by Sonia Gandhi to bring opposition parties together. As we get closer to the general election in 2019 I'm sure it'll take on a greater shape," he said.

Abdullah met West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee on Friday and the duo endorsed the need for the formation of a grand alliance of Opposition parties against the BJP in the 2019 Lok Sabha election.

Omar said that it was important for all like-minded parties to join hands to take the fight to the BJP.

"There are parties that have a leadership role in their particular areas. For example, take my party and Mamata Didi's party, we don't have any differences. But going ahead, other parties will have to be included. We will try our best to set our differences aside and put the best foot forward in terms of taking the fight to the BJP," Abdullah told the media.

Meanwhile, Mamata stressed on the need of all regional parties working together, saying, "Please don't pick and choose the individual names to divide us. All regional parties have to work together against BJP. Our intention is very clear. It's a fight for 2019 against BJP."

Discussions were also held between the two leaders regarding the prevailing situation of Jammu and Kashmir (J-K), with Abdullah saying that Mamata has always been concerned about the state, particularly about the economic activity and Jammu and Kashmir's tourism.