Excelsior Correspondent
SRINAGAR, June 28: Asking why the elected Government has failed to deliver despite enjoying a huge mandate, Apni Party (JKAP) President Syed Mohammad Altaf Bukhari today said that his party secured protection of land and jobs for locals from the Centre without even having a mandate in 2020.
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Speaking to reporters after a joining ceremony at the party headquarters here, Bukhari said that during the elections, people failed to see the “politics of truth” and must now introspect whether they voted in the right direction.
“We didn’t have a mandate when we started in 2020, but we had concerns. We were worried that the abrogation of Articles 370 and 35-A would open the floodgates for outsiders to buy land and take up jobs meant for locals,” he said.
He noted that the Apni Party had “gambled” with its “reputation” and compelled the Government of India to ensure guarantees for land and job rights, exclusively for locals.
“If we had a mandate, we might have even managed to restore Article 370. But that wasn’t the case at the time,” he said.
Bukhari pointed out that the current elected Government has 50 MLAs and a massive mandate, yet has failed to deliver on the ground.
“If it cannot achieve what we did without a mandate, people need to reflect on whether they voted wisely or were swayed by sentiment,” he added.
He said that his party only promised what it could realistically deliver, including amnesty for those languishing in jails.
“We only stated what was within our capacity. People may not have stood with the truth then, but they have now realized the reality.”
On the ongoing Amarnath Yatra, he said, “The pilgrims will continue to come to Kashmir as they always have, and we will welcome them wholeheartedly-they are our guests.”
On Engineer Rashid, Bukhari said that he was elected with a huge mandate and that the Government of India should ensure his early release.
On the occasion, prominent advocate and social activist Heena Sultan joined the Apni Party.
She was warmly welcomed by Apni Party President Altaf Bukhari and senior leaders, who praised her dedication to public service and activism.
Speaking at the event, Bukhari said that Heena Sultan’s decision to join the party reflects growing trust in Apni Party’s people-centric approach and vision for positive change.
“Heena Sultan has been tirelessly working for social and animal welfare. Her experience and commitment will greatly contribute to the party’s mission of serving the people. We fully support her as she embarks on this new journey with us,” he said.
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