Srinagar, 10-10-2024: Iltija Mufti, a prominent leader of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), accused the National Conference (NC) and the Communist Party of India (Marxist) [CPI(M)] of engaging in hooliganism following their victories in the recent Jammu and Kashmir Assembly elections. During a press conference at the PDP headquarters, she extended congratulations to the NC for their electoral success and specifically to Omar Abdullah for his election as the leader of the legislature party. However, she raised concerns over the conduct of NC workers, questioning whether their substantial majority in the Assembly was meant to justify violence and property destruction.
Mufti cited specific incidents involving the NC’s newly elected MLA from Srigufwara-Bijbehara, Bashir Veeri, alleging that his supporters had vandalized the homes of PDP workers and even set a cowshed on fire. “I want to ask Omar Abdullah, is this the mandate the people gave them? Is it a mandate for destruction?” she questioned.
Having lost her own election bid to Veeri in the Srigufwara-Bijbehara constituency, Mufti further accused NC workers of harassing female PDP members and using abusive language. She expressed her dissatisfaction, stating, “It doesn’t bother me if they abuse me or Mehbooba Mufti, but when they start targeting our workers, especially women, it crosses a line. We will not hesitate to take action.”
Expressing concern for the residents of Bijbehara, Mufti stated that the constituency had elected the “wrong MLA” and highlighted that similar instances of violence were reported in other areas. “The NC’s behavior is not isolated to Bijbehara; they are resorting to such acts in DH Pora as well. CPI(M) is also guilty of similar conduct against Jamaat-i-Islami (JeI) supporters in Kulgam. The NC has a long history of hooliganism, and they seem to be repeating the same behavior they engaged in 30-40 years ago,” she asserted.
Mufti disclosed that the PDP had reported these incidents to the police and local administration, acknowledging the authorities for their prompt response. “FIRs have been lodged in some cases, and I appreciate the swift action taken by the police. However, I want to issue a stern warning to NC workers—this behavior must stop, or we will hold them accountable,” she stated, adding, “The NC has always been intoxicated by power, and their actions now are a clear reflection of that.”