Mehbooba kickstarts ‘Youth Engagement Program’ ahead of speculative ULB & Panchayat Polls
Srinagar: The Jammu Kashmir Peoples Democratic Party (JKPDP) hosted a marathon meeting of its youth members, with the esteemed presence of the party president, Mehbooba Mufti.
The meeting focused on harnessing the energy and potential of the youth in shaping the future of Jammu & Kashmir through democratic means.
During the event, Party President Mehbooba Mufti emphasized the crucial role that the youth play in shaping the destiny of Jammu & Kashmir. She highlighted the importance of active participation in the democratic processes of Urban Local Bodies (ULB) and Panchayats to effectively serve the people of the region. “Our youth are not just the leaders of tomorrow, but the leaders of today. Their engagement in local governance ensures responsive and representative governance,” said Mufti.
“History is witnessed; the youth of J&K has never shied away from challenges and has always emerged stronger after every adversity. If we continue to march on the path of justice and peace with dignity, the day is not far away when we shall emerge victorious,” she said.
The gathering of youth members from across the valley was a platform for open discussions and expression of concerns about the prevailing political situation in Kashmir. The members collectively addressed concerns over the spread of misinformation and propaganda, particularly by certain quarters, aiming to undermine the region’s integrity.
Mehbooba Mufti, while addressing the concerns, reiterated the importance of preserving the Kashmiri identity, language, and culture. She stressed that it is imperative to counter any attempts to dilute or erode the unique cultural fabric that defines Jammu & Kashmir. “Our rich heritage and distinct identity are the cornerstones of our strength. We must stand united to safeguard them,” Mufti proclaimed.
Addressing the attendees, Party President Mehbooba Mufti condemned the events of 5th August, referring to it as a “black day” for India’s federal structure. She emphasized that this date would be etched in history as a day of “constitutional murder.” She highlighted the importance of upholding the principles of the Indian Constitution, which respects the diversity of the country’s regions and ensures their rightful representation.
Furthermore, Mufti expressed pride in the stance taken by the PDP against the abrogation of Article 370 and Article 35A, emphasizing their unconstitutionality. She noted that despite the challenges and imprisonments faced by the party leadership for voicing these concerns, the legal proceedings and explanations provided by the lawyers in court have highlighted the validity of the points raised by the PDP over the last four years.
“The proceedings in the court have vindicated our stance. The points we have been raising consistently for the past four years have found resonance through the legal processes. It’s heartening to see our concerns validated in the legal realm,” stated Mufti.
The marathon meeting concluded with an overwhelming sense of enthusiasm among the youth members, as they pledged to take proactive steps in serving their communities through active engagement in democratic processes.
“The JKPDP is committed to fostering an environment where the youth are empowered to contribute constructively to the region’s development and progress,” said a spokesperson of the party.
“The event showcased the unwavering dedication of the Jammu Kashmir Peoples Democratic Party to build a brighter future for Jammu & Kashmir, where democratic values, inclusivity, and the preservation of cultural heritage remain at the forefront,” he said.
“The meeting was attended by all the office bearers of Youth PDP and its members from across the valley,” he added.
