Key to NC's success was its swift maneuvering to secure the backing of these independent members even before its coalition partner, Congress, could make a similar move. The Congress, which performed poorly, securing just six seats, lost out on potential leverage. Some analysts argue that had Congress acted faster to negotiate with key independents such as Satish Sharma and Chowdhary Mohammad Akram—both former Congress members—it could have bolstered its own influence. However, the NC's calculated strategy left Congress in a more vulnerable position within the alliance.
Omar Abdullah, NC's vice president, has since staked claim to form the government, with the swearing-in ceremony expected in the coming days. This marks a critical shift in J&K’s political landscape, especially with Congress now playing a diminished role in the coalition. The future government will likely be heavily influenced by NC, which now holds the upper hand.