Srinagar, Dec 14: The People’s Democratic Party (PDP) held its first General Council meeting after its disappointing performance in the recent Jammu and Kashmir Assembly elections, where it secured only three seats. The meeting, chaired by PDP President Mehbooba Mufti, reiterated the party’s commitment to peacefully and democratically continue the struggle for the restoration of Jammu and Kashmir’s special status, which was revoked on August 5, 2019.
During the meeting, a resolution was passed stating the party’s firm stance on reinvigorating efforts to restore peace with dignity for the people of Jammu and Kashmir. The PDP emphasized the use of democratic and constitutional methods to resolve the Kashmir issue, including the reinstatement of the special status that the region enjoyed under Article 370 of the Indian Constitution prior to its abrogation in 2019.
The PDP acknowledged the poor electoral performance but expressed confidence in the party’s elected representatives to voice the concerns and aspirations of the people. It also called on the Union government to address the issues of disempowerment, deprivation, and humiliation that the party believes resulted from the unconstitutional revocation of Article 370.
The resolution further urged the Jammu and Kashmir government to act in accordance with the mandate given to it, urging more effective leadership in meeting the people’s needs. The PDP raised concerns over critical issues such as electricity shortages, rising unemployment, the drug crisis, and the release of prisoners. The party also highlighted the environmental damage caused by the overexploitation of natural resources in the region.
Additionally, the PDP called for the review of the status of political prisoners across various jails in India, demanding the release of individuals detained on weak charges and the transfer of prisoners back to Jammu and Kashmir.
The party also expressed grave concern over the rising climate of hatred against Muslims in India and urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to use his influence to curb violence, stop false narratives, and prevent the targeting of Muslims, particularly through what the PDP views as judicial overreach. Reaffirming its belief in India’s diversity, the PDP emphasized the need for mutual respect and the protection of individual rights and freedoms for all citizens.
