Kashmir: On the 25th foundation day of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), its President Mehbooba Mufti revealed that the party’s decision to align with Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2014 was motivated by the hope that he would emulate the inclusive and progressive governance style of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee. However, Mufti remarked that Modi has failed to meet the expectations of the Kashmiri people.
Speaking to party workers in Srinagar, Mehbooba Mufti emphasized that the PDP had anticipated Modi would follow Vajpayee’s approach, but he has remained silent on the aspirations of the Kashmiri populace. She highlighted her party’s efforts toward peace and development in the region, claiming that achievements during the 2003-2006 period surpassed those of other parties over the past 70 years.
Mufti reaffirmed the PDP’s commitment to the welfare of Jammu and Kashmir’s residents, despite ongoing challenges. She raised serious allegations that people in Kashmir are being coerced into displaying BJP flags under the threat of imprisonment, drawing parallels to past draconian measures.
“People are being coerced into adopting BJP flags with the threat of facing imprisonment,” she said, adding that the Task Force, Ikhwaan, and the Prevention of Terrorism Act (POTA), which were disbanded under the Mufti-led government in 2002, are now being revived.
Expressing gratitude to her party workers for their steadfast support amidst adversities, Mufti called for continued dedication to the party’s principles. The event saw the participation of all senior PDP leaders, underscoring the unity within the party despite recent challenges.
