SRINAGAR: Jamaat-e-Islami Kashmir, once sidelined for over three decades due to its election boycotts and a ban under the UAPA, is now stepping into the political limelight. In a surprising shift, three former members of the organization are contesting the upcoming assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir as independent candidates.
These candidates will vie for seats in various constituencies of South Kashmir, a region that has been pivotal in Kashmir’s political landscape. Among them is Sayar Ahmed Reshi, a former head of the Falah-e-Aam Trust, Jamaat’s educational arm in Kulgam.
Reshi, who holds a master’s degree in political science, is running as an independent candidate from the Kulgam constituency, a seat long dominated by CPI(M) leader M.Y. Tarigami, a four-time MLA. Hailing from Kaharwat, Kulgam, he previously worked as a contractual lecturer in government colleges and tutored at private coaching centres in the district.
Reshi’s residence along with that of 95-year-old ex-Jamaat chief Sheikh Ghulam Hassan, was frequently raided by the National Investigation Agency in recent years as part of terror funding investigations. Additionally, his apple orchard, which provided his family’s main source of income, was seized by the authorities.
The entry of Jamaat into the election fray in South Kashmir, particularly in Kulgam, could shift the region’s political dynamic. Once the ideological base of the Hizbul Mujahideen, the Jamaat’s participation threatens to disrupt the stronghold of CPI(M) leader Tarigami, especially in key villages like Bugam, Buchroo, Tarigam, Sangas, and other traditional Jamaat bastions.
These areas, historically boycotted elections since the 1990s eruption of terrorism may now shape a new political chapter, challenging the CPI(M)’s dominance in Kulgam.
The New Indian’s Principal Correspondent Emaad Makhdoomi conducted an exclusive interview with former Jamaat-e-Islami member and Independent candidate from Kulgam Sayar Ahmad Reshie during his election campaign :
Q: Jamaat is participating in elections after 37 years. What message are you giving to the people?
A: We have contested before, but due to the 1987 elections, where irregularities occurred, we stayed away in protest. Now, after seeing the transparency of recent Lok Sabha elections, we have regained confidence. People are frustrated with issues like drugs, education, and healthcare, so we have stepped in to help address these problems.
Q: It’s said that Jamaat-e-Islami Kashmir has ties to Hizbul Mujahideen. How do you respond?
A: There is no connection between Jamaat-e-Islami Kashmir and Hizbul Mujahideen. Our former leader, Bhat Saheb, has made it clear that we have no affiliation with any armed groups. We operate under legal and democratic frameworks.
Q: The government claims Jamaat-e-Islami was promoting separatism and terrorism. What is your response?
A: This is not true. Security agencies have searched our homes multiple times and found only our books and literature. We have never promoted separatism or terrorism.
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Q: PDP leader Waheed Parra said Mehbooba Mufti would have offered seats if Jamaat approached her. What do you say?
A: Jamaat decisions are made collectively, not independently. Also, after the elections are over, the committee will decide our next steps.
Q: Omar Abdullah called Jamaat’s participation a positive step but criticized the unrest they’ve caused. How do you respond?
A: Omar’s grandfather, Sheikh Abdullah, is responsible for much of the unrest in Jammu and Kashmir. His actions, including election rigging, silenced educated voices, forcing people to take up arms. Omar himself said he wouldn’t contest but now runs from multiple seats. He’s seeing the people’s mood change and is scared.
Q: Kashmiri Pandits and other minority groups have raised concerns about Jamaat’s involvement in elections. How do you address their concerns?
A: To my Kashmiri Pandit brothers and sisters, I say that the election rigging of 1987 separated us. You are an integral part of our society. Without you, our paradise is incomplete. We welcome your return and offer our homes until you rebuild yours. We have always protected you and will continue to do so.