Srinagar: Apni Party president Syed Mohammad Altaf Bukhari on Sunday criticised the National Conference-led government over unemployment, public infrastructure and the recent power tariff hike, while welcoming political leader Amir Bhat and his associates into the party fold at a public meeting in Brain Nishat.
Addressing the gathering, Bukhari alleged that Srinagar’s residents had been deprived of their social, economic and political rights despite repeatedly supporting the National Conference. He claimed that several areas of the city continue to face shortages of basic amenities, including housing, drinking water, healthcare facilities and employment opportunities.
On the occasion, Bukhari announced Amir Bhat, formerly associated with the Democratic Progressive Azad Party (DPAP), as the party’s face for the Khanyar Assembly constituency and assured him of the party’s support.
The Apni Party chief also criticised the Omar Abdullah-led government for what he described as its failure to fulfil promises made during the 2024 Assembly elections, including employment generation, free electricity and other welfare measures. He questioned the implementation of commitments related to jobs, ration benefits, LPG cylinders and regularisation of daily wagers.
Bukhari strongly opposed the recent increase in electricity tariffs and demanded its immediate rollback. He urged Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, who also holds the Power portfolio, to withdraw the tariff revision, alleging that it would place an additional burden on economically distressed households.
He also appealed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi to initiate dialogue with the people of Jammu and Kashmir to address their concerns and grievances. Bukhari said the Centre should take steps to restore what he termed the rights of the people and address issues related to detainees and youth.
Speaking at the meeting, Apni Party vice-president Mohammad Syed Akhoon alleged that he was expelled from the National Conference after advising its leadership against making promises in the 2024 election manifesto that he believed could not be fulfilled. He claimed public dissatisfaction had grown because of the government’s failure to deliver on those commitments.
Provincial president Mohammad Ashraf Mir said the party was committed to the development of Srinagar and called on youth to support its agenda. He also urged party workers to remain engaged with the public and raise local issues with the authorities.
Several senior party leaders and office-bearers were present at the meeting.
