What TV doesn't, print can't; we deliver.
What TV doesn't, print can't; we deliver.
SRINAGAR: Altaf Bukhari, a businessman heading FIL Industries, a conglomerate involved in agrochemicals, agriculture, and beverage production, officially entered the political arena in the months leading up to the 2014 state elections. He aligned with the PDP, contesting from the Amirakadal constituency, where he secured victory over Nasir Aslam Wani, the Regional Head of the National Conference (NC).
As a first-term legislator, Bukhari was appointed the Public Works Minister in the PDP-BJP coalition under the leadership of Mufti Mohammad Sayeed. After Mufti’s passing in January 2016, when Mehbooba Mufti hesitated to assume leadership of the alliance, Bukhari reportedly traveled to Delhi, offering to head the government.
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However, when Mehbooba Mufti finally took charge as Chief Minister in April 2016, Bukhari was removed from the cabinet. A year later, he returned as the Minister of Education, and within two years, he was also assigned the Finance portfolio following the removal of Dr. Haseeb Drabu from the role.
As tensions between Bukhari and Mehbooba Mufti escalated, he was ousted from the PDP in January 2019, accused of orchestrating a rebellion that undermined the party’s ability to fulfill the coalition’s agenda.
Post the repeal of Article 370, Bukhari became the first prominent political figure from Jammu and Kashmir to openly engage with the central government. In October 2019, he attended a luncheon with an unofficial European Union delegation, hosted by National Security Advisor Ajit Doval.
By 2023, Bukhari’s security detail was upgraded to Z-plus status. While he was already listed as a protected figure under the J&K category, he was also added to the central protection list, at a time when many non-BJP leaders in the region were voicing concerns about the reduction in their security measures.
After a lacklustre performance in the recent Lok Sabha polls, the Jammu and Kashmir Apni Party (JKAP), founded and led by Bukhari, faces mounting pressure ahead of the upcoming state elections, which may represent its last opportunity to stay relevant in the political landscape of the region.
The JKAP, established in 2020, has often been perceived as being closely aligned with the BJP. In the 2024 general elections, the party failed to gain a majority in any of the 36 assembly constituencies across the Srinagar and Anantnag Rajouri parliamentary seats.
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The New Indian Principal Correspondent, Emaad Makhdoomi, conducted an exclusive interview with J&K Apni Party President Altaf Bukhari during his door-to-door campaign in Srinagar’s Chanapora constituency.
Q: The upcoming assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir are the first since the abrogation of Article 370. How do you see the current political scenario, especially with the NC-Congress alliance?
A: What matters most is the enthusiasm of the people, not just the political alliances. Alliances in J&K haven’t brought positive results in the past. We have seen alliances in 1987, 2002, 2009, and 2014, but they all led to chaos and conflict. I hope this time, political leaders prioritize the safety and security of the people. This election is crucial for Jammu and Kashmir’s future.
Q: Jamaat-e-Islami has decided to contest elections after 35 years. What’s your take on this?
A: It’s a positive step. Religious parties have an important role in our society, especially in addressing issues like drug abuse and social evils. Their involvement can bring both political and spiritual empowerment, which is much needed.
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Q: Your party, JKAP, faced a tough loss in the recent Lok Sabha elections, and many say your close ties with the BJP affected your standing. How do you plan to change this narrative?
A: The core issues for my party have always been protecting land and job rights and restoring statehood. These goals required engagement with the central government. Being labeled as close to BJP doesn’t concern me—we do not follow their ideology. We have made it clear that we won’t form alliances with any party. We’re independent and equidistant from all political groups, including BJP, NC, PDP, and Congress.
Q: A Delhi court is about to rule on Engineer Rashid’s bail plea. Do you think his release could impact the political landscape in Kashmir?
A: Engineer Rashid has already influenced the political scene, especially in North Kashmir. If he is released, it would send a powerful message to the people that their rights matter. He was elected by 5 lakh people, and his release would symbolize fairness and democracy in J&K.
Q: What are the key issues your party will focus on during this election?
A: Our main focus is general amnesty for individuals charged with minor offences, allowing them access to passports and government jobs. Our party’s mission is to heal the wounds of the last 35 years, alongside addressing economic and social concerns.
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Q: Iltija Mufti is contesting in South Kashmir. Why hasn’t your party fielded a candidate against her in Bijbehara?
A: It’s good to see her contesting. After giving two generations a chance, let’s trust the third to bring change. We decided not to field a candidate in Bijbehara for this reason.
Q: Some view Iltija Mufti’s candidacy as part of Kashmir’s political dynasty culture. Do you agree?
A: I disagree with that view. A doctor’s son can become a doctor, and the same applies to politicians. If people vote for them, that’s democracy. Personally, my family won’t enter politics, but I see political dynasties as a natural process—if they learn from the mistakes of their predecessors, they may do better.
Q: You have had a unique journey from businessman to politician. What have been your key takeaways?
A: I have never really seen myself as a politician. I am here to serve the people. Whether as works minister, education minister, or finance minister, my goal has always been to achieve what seemed impossible. For example, after the abrogation of Article 370, I fought to secure land rights for the people of J&K, ensuring that non-domiciles cannot purchase land or take government jobs here. This is my contribution, and I believe in putting people first, not power.
