Budgam, May 3 (JKNS): Senior leaders of the Jammu and Kashmir Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) on Sunday addressed a party convention in Khansahib, Budgam, where they launched a sharp attack on the Jammu & Kashmir National Conference (NC) and reiterated their commitment to safeguarding the rights and interests of the people.
The convention was led by PDP General Secretary Ghulam Nabi Lone Hanjura. Senior leaders including Manzoor Ahmad Wani, Shahnawaz Mir, Mohammad Yaseen Bhat, Nawab-ur-Rehman Bhat and Molvi Nisar Ahmad were present. Hundreds of party workers participated in the meeting.
Addressing the gathering, Hanjura alleged that the Jammu and Kashmir Public Safety Act (PSA) was introduced during the tenure of Farooq Abdullah. He accused the National Conference of “misleading the people of Jammu and Kashmir since 1947” and said the party continues on the same path.
Highlighting PDP’s political legacy, he said that the aspirations of Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah were carried forward by Mufti Mohammad Sayeed. He credited Mufti for introducing the “healing touch” policy, which he said helped reduce public hardships at a time when people were facing difficulties under stringent laws.
Hanjura further stated that key initiatives such as the Srinagar–Muzaffarabad bus service and cross-LoC trade were launched during Mufti Mohammad Sayeed’s tenure. He also highlighted that tourist destinations like Yusmarg, Doodhpathri, and Tosamaidan were identified and developed during the same period.
He said that the “dreams of Sher-e-Kashmir” Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah were realized through the policies of Mufti Mohammad Sayeed, adding that the PDP has always focused on peace, development, and public welfare.
Hanjura appreciated Iltija Mufti for raising her voice in support of the Urdu language, stating that her intervention helped safeguard its status. He emphasized that the PDP has consistently worked to protect the cultural and linguistic identity of Jammu and Kashmir.
He also criticized Syed Mohammad Altaf Bukhari, alleging that despite being given a platform and serving as Finance Minister, he later distanced himself from the party.
Similarly, he raised questions about the political conduct of Saif-ud-Din Bhat, claiming that he was introduced into politics by Mufti Mohammad Sayeed but later “betrayed” the party.
During the meeting, party workers were directed to intensify preparations for a major convention scheduled to be held on May 9 in Budgam. Detailed discussions were held regarding organizational strategy and public outreach.
The upcoming convention is expected to be attended by PDP President Mehbooba Mufti along with other senior leaders.
Speaking on the occasion, Manzoor Ahmad Wani said that the Khansahib constituency witnessed significant administrative and developmental progress during the tenure of Mufti Mohammad Sayeed, including the grant of tehsil status and development of sub-district infrastructure. He alleged that subsequent governments, particularly the National Conference, failed to carry forward these initiatives and misled the people.
Reaffirming their commitment, PDP leaders said the party will continue to raise issues concerning the people of Jammu and Kashmir and remain focused on safeguarding their rights and interests. (JKNS)
