Says statehood remains a priority but pressing issues affecting the people require immediate attention.
Srinagar, June 9(KNB): Jammu and Kashmir Apni Party President Altaf Bukhari on Tuesday accused the National Conference (NC) and its alliance partners of misleading the people of Jammu and Kashmir by adopting different political positions in Kashmir and New Delhi.
Addressing a press conference, Bukhari said that NC and its allies claim to oppose the BJP in Kashmir but share the same platform in Delhi.
“They fight in Kashmir and sit on the same table in Delhi. They are fooling the people of Jammu and Kashmir,” Bukhari said.
He urged the Centre to initiate dialogue with the people of Jammu and Kashmir, recalling its earlier commitment to hold talks with stakeholders in the region.
“We want to remind Delhi that it had promised talks with the people of Jammu and Kashmir. Now is the time to fulfill that promise,” he said.
Bukhari said that while the restoration of statehood remains a top priority, several other pressing issues also require immediate attention.
“There are serious concerns including unemployment, infiltration and corruption at all levels. No doubt statehood is at the top of these issues, but we must sit together, identify these challenges and work towards resolving them,” he said.
Referring to the National Conference’s electoral victory, Bukhari said the party had secured around 50 seats on the basis of its manifesto and must now deliver on its promises.
“The National Conference has won on the basis of its manifesto. Now it is their responsibility to deliver to the people; otherwise, they may not get another opportunity from the electorate in future elections,” he said.
Welcoming the upcoming Amarnath Yatra, the Apni Party chief stressed that local residents and tourists should not face inconvenience due to traffic restrictions and highway closures.
“We welcome the Amarnath Yatra, but people and tourists should not suffer because of highway closures. I request the authorities to ensure smooth movement and avoid unnecessary disruptions,” he said.
Bukhari also expressed concern over the detention of youth from Jammu and Kashmir in various jails across the country. He said he did not want to politicise the issue but called for justice for those allegedly detained for participating in protests.
“Our youth are lodged in different jails across the country. I do not want to do politics on this issue like some others. Many of those arrested have merely participated in protests in which thousands of people took part. They deserve justice,” he said.(KNB)