If the Cong-NC alliance embraces the PDP agenda, we are prepared to offer our entire support to them: Mehbooba

Srinagar, 24-08-2024: People’s Democratic Party (PDP) President Mehbooba Mufti declared today that her party is prepared to extend full support to the Congress-National Conference (NC) alliance in the upcoming Jammu and Kashmir Assembly elections, provided the coalition agrees to endorse the PDP’s agenda. Mufti made this statement during a press conference following the release of the PDP’s election manifesto.

Mufti emphasized that the primary concern for the PDP is the resolution of the Kashmir issue and the reopening of routes, which she believes are crucial for the dignity of Jammu and Kashmir’s people. She indicated that if the Congress and NC are willing to embrace these key aspects of the PDP’s agenda, the PDP would be willing to let them contest all the seats in the elections, foregoing its own participation.

“The dignity of Jammu and Kashmir’s people, which has been compromised, is paramount for us,” Mufti said. “The resolution of the Kashmir issue holds more significance for me than any seat-sharing arrangement.” She also clarified that the PDP had previously formed alliances with the Congress or BJP based on specific agendas, but the current NC-Congress alliance is focused solely on seat-sharing without a shared agenda. The PDP is determined that any future alliance must be based on a concrete agenda, rather than mere political convenience.

Mufti dismissed the notion of a potential post-poll alliance with the BJP, stating that the PDP had only collaborated with the BJP Government on the condition that Article 370 would remain untouched. “There is no basis for a post-poll alliance with the BJP. We allied with the BJP Government, not the party, under the strict condition that Article 370 would not be affected,” she explained.

In its manifesto, the PDP has committed to restoring Articles 370 and 35A, emphasizing the need to address the unconstitutional revocation of these provisions in 2019. The party argues that this revocation has exacerbated the Kashmir issue and deepened regional alienation. The PDP’s manifesto outlines a vision to return Jammu and Kashmir to its prior status, ensuring that the rights and voices of its people are protected.

The PDP also promises to pursue diplomatic initiatives to foster India-Pakistan dialogue, focusing on conflict resolution, confidence-building measures, and regional cooperation. They advocate for full connectivity across the Line of Control (LoC) to facilitate trade and social exchanges.

The party’s manifesto includes pledges to repeal the Public Safety Act (PSA), the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), and the Enemy Act, which they argue contribute to unjust arrests of political and social activists, journalists, and citizens. They are also committed to revoking the Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA).

Addressing the concerns of displaced Kashmiri Pandits, the PDP promises to ensure their dignified return to their homeland and has pledged to revise the current 1 BHK scheme to a minimum allocation of 2 BHK apartments for returning families. Additionally, the manifesto includes provisions for providing 200 free units of electricity per household, settling pending electricity bills, and abolishing the water meter system.

For economically weaker sections (EWS), the PDP promises 12 free cylinders of gas per year and an increase in funds for social security schemes, such as Old Age Pension, Widow Pension, and Pension for Disabled, from ₹1,000 to ₹2,000. The party also commits to regularizing 60,000 daily wagers within a year and reinstating the Old Pension Scheme (OPS) for government employees, replacing the current National Pension Scheme (NPS).

Furthermore, the PDP plans to transfer hydropower projects to Jammu and Kashmir and establish a Disney Adventure Park at Tattoo Ground in Srinagar. They propose implementing a 25-year comprehensive master plan for urban growth across Jammu and Kashmir and restoring the Waqf Board to ensure transparency, accountability, and community focus. Additionally, the party aims to promote the Sharda Peeth across the LoC as a major religious pilgrimage site.

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