Speaking at an election rally in Pulwama, People’s Democratic Party (PDP) president Mehbooba Mufti reiterated the party’s primary goal of contesting the elections: to convey to the nation, through parliament, that the actions taken by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in 2019 are unacceptable. She emphasized that the unilateral decisions, suppression of dissenting voices, and erosion of constitutional guarantees in Jammu and Kashmir are not in line with the wishes of its people.
Mufti emphasized the importance of thwarting attempts to divide votes, asserting that PDP’s candidate, Para, is well-equipped to represent the voices of the people while maintaining a strong connection to the grassroots, a quality he has demonstrated as the party’s youth leader since its inception.
She painted a grim picture of the current situation in Jammu and Kashmir, describing it as an “open-air prison.” She highlighted the plight of the youth, many of whom are imprisoned in various states, and the soaring unemployment rates in the region.
Mufti accused the BJP of attempting to strip the people of Jammu and Kashmir of their rights and resources, likening it to pushing them into a state of bonded labor. She invoked the legacy of PDP founder Mufti Mohammad Sayeed, crediting him with bringing hope and dignity to the people during times of political turmoil.
Emphasizing the importance of the upcoming elections, Mufti urged the people to use their vote as their weapon, stating that unity is crucial in the face of attempts by Delhi to divide their votes. She highlighted Para as the most suitable candidate to represent their interests in parliament.
The party also welcomed Javed Rahim, a prominent political figure and District Development Council (DDC) member, into its fold.
The statements made by Mufti reflect the determination of the PDP to address the grievances of the people of Jammu and Kashmir and advocate for their rights and dignity through the democratic process.
