SRINAGAR: President Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Mehbooba Mufti, stated on Saturday that, for her, the forthcoming legislative contest in Jammu and Kashmir is not merely about statehood or forming alliances but is aimed at a “greater objective.”
At a media briefing for the PDP’s manifesto release, Mufti emphasized, “We are unveiling our agenda today, and since PDP’s inception, our focus has been on a purpose. We have consistently advocated for resolution and dialogue. The situation in Jammu and Kashmir has deteriorated since the repeal of Article 370.”
Discussing the collaboration between the National Conference (NC) and Congress, Mufti remarked, “PDP will fully endorse the NC-Congress partnership in the J&K elections if they agree to our core focus, which is chiefly the resolution of the Kashmir conflict.” She further elaborated, “Currently, the Kashmir issue has been reduced to seat negotiations, but it remains much broader and unresolved.”
Mufti highlighted that “initiatives like opening roads and trade were pioneered by the PDP. Jammu and Kashmir’s significance extends beyond electoral concerns, Article 370, or power-sharing.” In its election manifesto, PDP pledged to pursue reconciliation and resolution, alongside reinstating cross-LoC trade.
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The manifesto also promises to rescind laws like the Public Safety Act (PSA) and Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) that have been applied against civilians and journalists. Additionally, the PDP has vowed to lift the ban on Jamaat-e-Islami (JeI).
The party also committed to providing 200 units of free electricity to citizens, increasing rations and gas cylinders for BPL households, abolishing stamp duty for women, and offering tax-free imports of apples to benefit local farmers. Furthermore, free electricity will be provided to temples, mosques, and shrines, with a special scheme for the transgender community.