Altaf Bukhari questions PAGD’s disappearance

Srinagar, Apr 21: Apni Party president Syed Mohammad Altaf Bukhari on Tuesday questioned the relevance and disappearance of the People’s Alliance for Gupkar Declaration (PAGD), asking its key leaders to clarify its purpose and present status.
Speaking to reporters, Bukhari asked Farooq Abdullah, Mehbooba Mufti, and Omar Abdullah why the alliance no longer appears active.
“Where is PAGD?” he said, questioning whether it was formed and dissolved at the behest of Delhi. He further asked whether the alliance was created to “befool people,” stating that the public deserves clarity on why it does not exist now.
The PAGD, formed before the abrogation of Article 370, had brought together several regional political parties in Jammu and Kashmir on a common platform.
Bukhari also targeted the National Conference, alleging that the party does not support people in distress. He cited a recent case involving the brother of the Deputy Chief Minister, whose property was reportedly acted upon by the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB).
Referring to remarks made by Omar Abdullah at a recent rally, where he said he was “powerless” in certain matters, Bukhari questioned the claim.
“Who told you that Omar Abdullah is powerless? He is not,” Bukhari said, adding that administrative decisions, including those related to appointments such as the Advisor to the Chief Minister, indicate otherwise.
He alleged that the NC is not focused on addressing public issues, including matters related to FIRs against youth and the demand for restoration of statehood, and instead is engaging in political “drama.”
Bukhari further criticized both the NC and the People’s Democratic Party, stating that they have “taken shelter of lies,” while asserting that the Apni Party stands for “truth.”
“Truth and lies cannot unite,” he said, adding that the two parties cannot come together with conflicting approaches. [KNT]