Statehood Can Only Be Restored Through Dialogue with Delhi: Altaf Bukhari
Umer Malik
Rajouri: Jammu and Kashmir Apni Party President Syed Mohd Altaf Bukhari on Monday reiterated that the restoration of statehood is the constitutional and democratic right of the people of Jammu and Kashmir, asserting that meaningful dialogue with the Central Government is the only way to resolve the region's political issues.
Addressing a massive workers' convention at Dak Bungalow, Rajouri, Bukhari said the Apni Party has consistently maintained since its formation that every major issue concerning Jammu and Kashmir can only be resolved through dialogue with New Delhi.
"We have always believed in the politics of truth. When the Apni Party was founded, we clearly said that every issue of Jammu and Kashmir could only be resolved through dialogue with Delhi. At that time, we were left alone for taking this stand, but today even Chief Minister Omar Abdullah is seeking the restoration of statehood from Delhi," Bukhari said.
He alleged that the National Conference was built on "false promises and deception," claiming that the party has repeatedly misled the people to secure votes.
Bukhari also alleged that the BJP and the National Conference resort to communal politics whenever it suits their political interests. "They divide people on religious lines for votes, but the Apni Party does not believe in Hindu-Muslim politics or the politics of lies and deception. Our politics is based on truth, public service, communal harmony and inclusive development," he said.
Bukhari maintained that political issues cannot be resolved through confrontation but through constitutional means, public trust and constructive engagement. He reiterated that the Apni Party stands for equal rights and balanced development across Jammu and Kashmir.
Referring to the 1987 Assembly elections, Bukhari described them as a "dark chapter" in Jammu and Kashmir's history, alleging that political mistakes of the past had caused immense damage to the region. He said future politics must be be based on justice, transparency and public welfare.
Apni Party State Vice President Ghulam Hassan Mir criticised the Omar Abdullah-led government, alleging that National Conference MLAs have been given a free hand to act against public interests. He claimed that development funds meant for Panchayats are being influenced by political considerations, with projects allegedly benefiting only a select group of party workers instead of being distributed fairly.
Mir further alleged that whenever individuals secure development works through other channels, they face political opposition and obstruction. Questioning the government's approach, he asked whether such practices could lead to genuine development. He also alleged that Panchayat elections are being delayed to safeguard political interests and retain control through MLAs.
Apni Party District President Syed Manzoor Bukhari alleged that electoral politics in Rajouri has also been driven by religious polarisation, expressing concern over the continued use of religion to seek votes. He said the people of Rajouri are facing serious developmental challenges and that many public issues remain unresolved.
Bukhari further alleged that the delay in holding Panchayat elections has deprived people of their democratic rights. He claimed that development planning, which should be carried out through elected Panchayats, is instead being controlled by MLAs, with benefits allegedly limited to party workers rather than reaching the general public.
JKAP Leader Arun Sharma said the Apni Party is "a movement" committed to securing the restoration of statehood and resolving all major issues of Jammu and Kashmir through dialogue and constitutional means. He alleged that there is no difference between the National Conference and the BJP, accusing both parties of pursuing politics that has harmed the interests of the people.
Highlighting the identity of the Pir Panjal region, Sharma said the people of Pir Panjal are proud of their distinct regional identity. He criticised certain BJP leaders from Jammu, alleging that they fail to recognise the significance of the Pir Panjal region while seeking votes from its people. He said leaders who do not understand the aspirations and identity of the region cannot genuinely represent its interests. Senior Apni Party leader Arun Kumar Sharma alleged that Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary has failed to ensure balanced development beyond his own constituency, claiming that several other areas have been neglected.
The convention was attended by a large number of senior leaders, office-bearers and workers from across Rajouri district, who reiterated their commitment to strengthening the organisation, restoration of statehood, and working collectively for peace, development and prosperity in Jammu and Kashmir.
