SRINAGAR, Oct 24: The People’s Democratic Party (PDP) convened a high-level meeting on Thursday to critically assess its performance in the recently concluded Jammu and Kashmir Assembly elections, where it managed to secure only three seats. The party, led by president Mehbooba Mufti, acknowledged the need for introspection and strategizing to reconnect with its voter base.
The review meeting, which included senior party leaders and contesting candidates, focused on understanding the reasons behind the party’s electoral decline. A party leader revealed that discussions centered around creating a new roadmap to strengthen grassroots outreach and regain the trust of the electorate.
Despite its initial prominence in the region’s political landscape, the PDP’s performance in the elections marked its lowest point since its founding. The party secured victories in only three constituencies—Pulwama, Tral, and Kupwara—all located in the Kashmir Valley.
Speaking at the meeting, Mehbooba Mufti emphasized the importance of rebuilding connections with the people and addressing their concerns more effectively. She acknowledged that the party’s poor electoral showing reflected a disconnect with the aspirations of the voters, particularly in comparison to previous election cycles when the PDP held a more significant presence in the Assembly.
Meanwhile, the National Conference emerged as the dominant party in the elections, clinching 42 out of 90 seats, signaling a significant shift in the political landscape of Jammu and Kashmir. The PDP’s leadership now faces the challenge of redefining its position and relevance within the region’s political framework.
The meeting concluded with a renewed commitment to internal reforms and expanding the party’s engagement at the grassroots level to restore its influence in the upcoming political contests.