Rehan Qayoom Mir
Srinagar, Nov 25: Apni Party President, Syed Altaf Bukhari Tuesday said the dialogue promised by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the people of Jammu and Kashmir must begin without delay.
Speaking to reporters in Handwara, Bukhari said that the promised talks can open a clear path to statehood, dignity and employment opportunities for the youth besides, a roadmap to protect the rights of the people of Jammu and Kashmir who joined India in 1947.
On the power tariff issue, Bukhari said any move to raise power tariffs will face strong resistance. The Chief Minister has already assured that no proposal for a tariff hike has reached his office, he said.
He added that if the government proceeds with a hike, the Apni Party will take the protest to the streets.
Bukhari called for a complete review of the reservation policy. He said the current system does not reflect merit or population share. He said young people deserve a fair policy that matches ground realities.
Responding to NC leader and Member of Parliament Aga Ruhullah’s deadline remarks on the issue, Bukhari said the matter is internal to the National Conference and makes no difference.
He rejected claims that his party has any link with the BJP. He said he has clarified this from the start. He added those who raise such allegations expose their own positions. “We believe that whosoever is governing Jammu and Kashmir needs Delhi’s support. The time has proven, as several leaders are now admitting that they are unable to deliver,” he said.
Bukhari said Muslim students will not face any denial of admission at Mata Vaishno Devi University. He said the law protects every student.
He also responded to attacks from political rivals, saying people already know who is honest and who is not. He said he does not need to label anyone because the public has already formed an opinion.
Bukhari said many groups push a wider national narrative, but Jammu and Kashmir is different. He said political messaging that works in Jammu does not work in Kashmir.
People rejected that narrative by giving fifty seats to a single party, yet that party has not delivered, he added.
