SRINAGAR: President of the Jammu and Kashmir Apni Party, Syed Mohammad Altaf Bukhari, on Sunday termed the National Conference’s proposed sit-in protest in Delhi as a “political drama” and accused traditional political parties of failing to address the genuine concerns of the people of Jammu and Kashmir.
Addressing a public convention at SDA Colony, Lachmanpora, Batamaloo, Bukhari said his party believes that the Government of India should engage directly with the people of Jammu and Kashmir, particularly the youth, to bridge the trust deficit and address their issues and concerns.
He maintained that meaningful dialogue between the Centre and the people of Jammu and Kashmir was essential for resolving public concerns and strengthening trust.
The convention also witnessed the joining of former National Conference Joint Secretary Gulzar Ahmad Bangroo, who formally joined the Apni Party along with a large number of his associates and supporters.
Criticising dynastic politics, Bukhari alleged that family-run parties in Jammu and Kashmir function as private enterprises rather than public service-oriented political organisations. He urged people not to be influenced by what he described as misleading political narratives and instead support those genuinely working for public welfare.
Referring to Batamaloo, he said the locality had historically been a vibrant political and commercial centre but alleged that successive governments had failed to ensure adequate civic amenities and infrastructure in the area.
He also criticised the ruling Jammu and Kashmir National Conference, alleging that it had failed to fulfil several promises made during the Assembly elections, including commitments related to free electricity, employment generation, regularisation of daily wagers and welfare measures.
Bukhari further raised concerns regarding the existing reservation policy and various civic and developmental issues affecting Srinagar residents.
Taking aim at both the National Conference and the Jammu and Kashmir Peoples Democratic Party, he alleged that traditional political parties had repeatedly misled voters for electoral gains.
Welcoming the new entrants into the party fold, Bukhari said their joining would strengthen the Apni Party’s organisational base in Srinagar.
