Urges youth to claim democratic space
Irfan Tramboo
SRINAGAR, Apr 8: Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) president and former Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti today said that Iran’s “resolve compelled” the United States and Israel to engage in talks.
Click here to watch video
Addressing reporters at the party headquarters, Mufti said the past month had left the Muslim world in distress amid attacks on Iran by the US and Israel, resulting in large-scale casualties and raising fears of a wider war.
She expressed satisfaction over what she described as Iran’s ability to “stand firm” against the two countries, asserting that it forced them to the negotiating table.
The PDP chief said Iran showed “sensibility” during the hostilities, alleging that while civilian infrastructure such as educational institutions and power facilities was targeted, Iran restricted its response to military installations.
On party affairs, Mufti emphasised expanding space for youth within the PDP, saying the party must balance experience with new leadership.
“When we need elders in the party, we also need youngsters, and I see that as a good omen. Most of the difficulties are faced by the youth. The situation for youngsters has become suffocating,” she said.
Referring to the setbacks faced by her party, Mufti said these had inadvertently created opportunities for younger members.
“The people we supported in the party, deserted us. However, there was some good in that-it created space, and now youngsters can work and get a chance to move ahead,” she said.
Mufti also cautioned party leaders against engaging in flattery and urged them to focus on public concerns.
“There is no need to waste time in praising me. Instead, raise the issues faced by the people,” she said.
With panchayat elections approaching, she called for greater youth participation in grassroots institutions.
Encouraging young aspirants to contest, Mufti said: “If they become panchs, sarpanches and DDC members, they will occupy space and make the right decisions for the future.”
She stressed that youth representation was key to addressing unemployment and governance challenges.
“More youngsters should be given space because if they are represented in these institutions, their issue of employment will also be addressed, and they will serve the people,” she said.
“Youngsters have a role to play-they must come forward. In a democracy, the youth should occupy space, especially those who want to serve the people,” she added.
Meanwhile, dozens of individuals from Karnah constituency joined the party here, in the presence of PDP chief and senior party leaders, including general secretary Mohammad Khursheed Aalam.
Follow our WhatsApp channel
