Iltija Mufti’s Scathing Attack on National Conference: ‘They Gave Kupwara Nothing in 70 Years’

Srinagar, Sept 24: Iltija Mufti, the daughter of former Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti and a prominent leader of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), has sharply criticized the National Conference (NC) during her campaign for PDP candidate Fayaz Ahmad Mir in Kupwara, north Kashmir. In a scathing indictment, she referred to the NC as a “party of thieves,” alleging that they have failed to deliver any tangible benefits to the people of Kupwara over the past 70 years, despite the region’s longstanding support for them.

Addressing a gathering of supporters, Iltija articulated her disappointment with the NC’s legacy, asserting, “There are only two parties; one is the NC, the party of thieves. They were in power for 70 years, and Kupwara voted for them, but they gave you nothing. Now, they shamelessly come here seeking your vote.” She emphasized that the NC has brought “agony and oppression” to the district, contrasting their record with the PDP’s commitment to the welfare of the people, even in the face of electoral setbacks, such as not winning any seats in the 2002 Assembly elections.

In a separate rally held in Lolab, Iltija expressed her genuine connection to the community, stating, “I am neither pretentious nor a politician. I don’t know how to act like one.” She acknowledged that while some may criticize her mother, Mehbooba Mufti, she consistently advocates for the concerns and issues facing the populace. “If the NC couldn’t accomplish anything in 70 years, what are they going to do now?” she questioned, highlighting the stark contrast between the parties’ respective records.

Reinforcing her point, Iltija reminisced about the challenging environment under NC rule, stating, “You used to be humiliated, there was a fear of the task force, and we ended it.” She urged the audience to recognize the PDP’s efforts for their welfare despite their lack of electoral representation in the past.

Iltija also addressed the current struggles facing the youth of Kupwara, advocating for educational opportunities and a future free from oppression. “Youth should have laptops in their hands, not be sent to jails. They should go to universities. Young girls deserve quality education, so they can excel and become KAS officers,” she asserted passionately.

She concluded with a rallying cry for the electorate, urging them to make their votes count. “If you vote for someone else, it will be a total waste, especially if you vote for the party that has been in power and did nothing for Kupwara. Delhi wants to take everything from us—to stop that, you must vote for the PDP,” she emphasized, framing the upcoming election as a critical juncture for the future of the region.