Srinagar: The People’s Democratic Party (PDP) on Thursday reviewed its dismal performance in the Jammu and Kashmir assembly elections in which it secured only three seats.
The review was undertaken at a meeting of the senior leaders and the contesting candidates of the party, which was chaired by PDP president Mehbooba Mufti, a PDP leader said.
The PDP won the three seats of Pulwama, Tral and Kupwara — all in the valley — in the elections which was its worst performance since its inception.
The National Conference emerged the winner, securing 42 out of the 90 seats.
Talking about the meeting, PDP spokesperson in a statement said that the principles and ideas on which the party was founded remain “highly relevant”. “We consider these principles the most appropriate remedy for the problems faced by Jammu and Kashmir. At the core of our mission is dialogue, and the current pervasive situation demands addressing the root cause.
“Regardless of electoral outcomes, the PDP has an essential role to play. We will continue raising issues concerning the people and extend support to the government wherever our voice can contribute to securing constitutional rights of the people of Jammu and Kashmir,” the spokesperson added.
The PDP spokesperson stated that the party will draft detailed proposals to strengthen its grassroots presence and reconnect with the public. The party aims to highlight its achievements and reaffirm itself as a “viable democratic alternative”.
He further noted that the PDP is willing to support any party that shares its mission of safeguarding public rights. “Despite sustained assaults on the PDP, including a mass exodus of leaders, MLAs, and MLCs, this election has demonstrated that the PDP is here to stay. We are committed to rebuilding, addressing our weaknesses from the recent polls, and expanding our worker base to ensure effective voter mobilization in future elections.”
The party stressed that it is preparing for the upcoming municipal, panchayat, and District Development Council (DDC) elections with renewed vigor. “Our well-structured grassroots network will be activated in line with the political vision of our founder, Mufti Mohammad Sayeed,” the spokesperson said.
The PDP also highlighted the potential of its younger members, many of whom have left established careers to join politics. “These young talents are crucial to the party’s future, and their political skills will be honed under the guidance of senior leaders,” the spokesperson added.
During the meeting, the party leadership reiterated its commitment to providing a credible democratic alternative. “The achievements of our brief tenures under Mufti Mohammad Sayeed and Mehbooba Mufti—particularly in connectivity, opening routes across the Line of Control, education, and health—continue to benefit the public. We will carry forward this legacy,” said the spokesperson.
