What was the primary political party exercising influence on the politics of Jammu and Kashmir during 1953-1974?
1) Communist Party of India
2) Bharatiya Janata Party
3) Nationalist Congress Party
4) Indian National Congress

Choose the correct answer from the given options:

4

Between 1953 and 1974, the Congress party wielded significant influence over the state's political landscape. During this time, a fragmented National Conference (excluding Sheikh Abdullah) held power for a period with active support from the Congress. Eventually, this faction merged with the Congress, granting the latter direct governance control in the state and instigating changes. During this period, various efforts were made to find a resolution between Sheikh Abdullah and the Indian government. In 1965, an alteration to the Jammu and Kashmir Constitution designated the state's head as the Chief Minister instead of the Prime Minister. Consequently, Ghulam Mohammed Sadiq from the Indian National Congress became the inaugural Chief Minister of the state.