Srinagar|August, 29: Blasting traditional political outfits for exposing Srinagar to decades of neglect and developmental failure, Jammu and Kashmir Apni Party President Syed Mohammad Altaf Bukhari on Saturday asserted that the ruling National Conference stands completely exposed for reneging on its poll promises. Speaking at a ceremony organized at the party headquarters to welcome former People’s Conference District President Nighat Gul and ex-Corporator Inayat Hussain Mir into the party fold, Bukhari declared that the continuous influx of political leaders reflects growing public trust in his party’s genuine commitment. Pointing out the systemic collapse of basic amenities and infrastructure in the summer capital since 1990, Bukhari said, “Traditional political parties have always neglected Srinagar despite repeatedly receiving the mandate of its people. The residents of the city have suffered from a serious developmental deficit, particularly since 1990.” Welcoming the new entrants, he reaffirmed his party’s grassroots credentials, emphasizing, “I assure you that you will never regret your decision to join this party, because Apni Party is, at its core, a party of the people and is committed to serve the people. This party belongs neither to any individual nor to any particular family.”
Urging New Delhi to take decisive steps for the region’s economic survival, the Apni Party chief emphasized that central intervention is vital to address unemployment and secure a dignified future for the local youth, who have overwhelmingly chosen the path of peace. Referring to J&K’s strategic constraints and lack of private sector industries, he stressed, “It is the responsibility of the Centre to understand the ground realities. Talk to the people, listen to their genuine issues and concerns, and then take concrete steps to address them.” When questioned by reporters regarding rumors of National Conference MP Aga Syed Ruhullah Mehdi’s potential resignation over public discontent, Bukhari remarked that while it is premature to comment, “Apparently, Aga Sahib has realised that the ruling NC has failed to provide effective governance and fulfil the promises it made to the people while seeking their mandate in the 2024 elections.” reiterating that “The ruling NC’s biggest failure has been its inability to fulfil the promises it made during the elections and implement its election manifesto.”
