Altaf Bukhari hits out at traditional political parties

Srinagar, Jul 26: In a significant event held at the Apni Party headquarters in Srinagar, PDP leader Sarwar Mufti, along with dozens of his associates, from Srigufwara–Bijbehara Assembly constituency formally joined the Apni Party today.

On the occasion, Party President Syed Mohammad Altaf Bukhari and other senior leaders, extended a warm welcome to the new entrants.

Besides Sarwar Mufti, his prominent associates who joined the Apni Party along with their teams included Mohammad Abdullah Shah, Mudasir Ali Latoo, Showkat Ahmad Salro, Advocate Zeshan Danish, Showkat Ahmad Latto, Mohammad Abbas Wani, and others. All of them belong to the Srigufwara–Bijbehara Assembly constituency.

Addressing the occasion, Syed Mohammad Altaf Bukhari, while welcoming Mufti Sarwar along and his associates into the Apni Party, also extended an invitation to all PDP leaders who had worked with the late Mufti Mohammad Sayeed and now feel uncomfortable in that organisation.

He said, “I am pleased to welcome Mufti Sarwar and the leaders and workers who have joined Apni Party today. This party belongs to the people of Jammu and Kashmir — not to any political family. We do not believe in dynastic rule, and everyone is welcome here.”

He went on to say, “The problem with the PDP is that it has ended up in the hands of a single family. It was established in 1999 to offer a political alternative, to end dynastic rule, and to challenge the arrogant monopoly of the National Conference. Unfortunately, over time, the PDP itself turned into a Khandani Jamaat — a family-run party. I know that many of those who worked closely with the late Mufti Sahib now feel sidelined and humiliated within the party. I invite them to join the Apni Party. Together, we will work to uphold the dignity of the people and restore their rights.”

Taking a dig at traditional political parties, Syed Mohammad Altaf Bukhari said, “Over the past several decades, these parties have sold everything to New Delhi. From surrendering the post of Prime Minister to allowing the jurisdiction of the Supreme Court in this region, they have compromised on everything for their personal and political gain.”

“Apni Party is the only party that has successfully managed to achieve something from New Delhi. After August 2019, we ensured the protection of the special rights of the people over land and jobs in this region. That was our achievement soon after this party was established.”

After the event, while speaking to reporters, Syed Mohammad Altaf Bukhari accused the traditional political parties of not being serious about their demand for statehood.

He said, “They are not serious. They are not even willing to join hands to strengthen this demand before the Centre. No sincere efforts are being made for the restoration of statehood. It is only the Apni Party that is preparing itself and building the strength to struggle for the statehood of Jammu and Kashmir genuinely.”

Replying to a question, he said, “Had the Congress Party not joined hands with the ruling BJP on August 5, 2019, to change the constitutional position of Jammu and Kashmir, no such change would have been possible. The bill could not have been passed in the Rajya Sabha without Congress support.”

Speaking on the occasion, Apni Party’s General Secretary Rafi Ahmad Mir welcomed the new entrants.

He said, “I wholeheartedly welcome you all to the Apni Party, and I assure you that the entire leadership will stand firmly behind you as you go out to serve the people in your respective areas.”

He urged the party leaders and senior workers to “stay connected with the people in order to understand their pressing issues and grievances, so that these concerns can be highlighted and brought to the notice of the concerned officials for their prompt redressal.”

Speaking to the gathering, party’s Additional General Secretary Hilal Ahmad Shah explained the party’s agenda and policies.

Party’s Provincial President Mohammad Ashraf Mir while giving a warm welcome to the new entrants said, “I welcome you all. I am very much sure that your joining will strengthen the party cadre further in your constituency.” On this occasion, Sarwar Mufti expressed his gratitude to the party leadership, especially Syed Mohammad Altaf Bukhari.