Anantnag, Nov 11: Sarwar Mufti, a close relative of J&K’s former Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti, joined the Democratic Progressive Azad Party (DPAP) on Saturday. He was welcomed by DPAP Chairman Ghulam Nabi who encouraged him to follow Late Mufti Mohammad Sayeed’s “people-centric vision”.
Mufti Sayeed was the founder of the People’s Democratic Party and the two-time chief minister of the erstwhile State of Jammu & Kashmir.
According to DPAP, Sarwar prematurely retired from government service and aims to serve the people through political engagement.
“Sarwar Mufti, first cousin of PDP President Mehbooba Mufti, today resigned from service prematurely and joined DPAP in the presence of Chairman DPAP Ghulam Nabi Azad in Bijbhera. Mr Sarwar served as an Engineer and has 18 more years to retire. Sarwar served as an important person to the Late Mufti Mohammad Syeed when was the chief minister of the erstwhile State and was engaged in various assignments and provided him with an opportunity to serve and engage with people at the grassroots. He has a great following in his respective constituency,” the DPAP spokesperson said.
Azad while welcoming Sarwar into the party along with other members said there is a hope that elections would address people’s concerns and Sarwar will hopefully serve the people.
“Bureaucratic rule cannot replace political engagement, as elected representatives are crucial for addressing people’s grievances. The need for restoring political space, resuming political activities, and acknowledging the imminent elections,” Azad said while addressing the gathering.
He reminisced about his visits to Mufti Sayeed’s hometown during opposition days in Congress and highlighted the significance of Sarwar Mufti joining the party. He expressed optimism that Sarwar would continue the agenda of working for the people, following the late Mufti Sayeed’s legacy.
The former CM on the occasion said, “In many provinces, unfortunately, bribery has infiltrated elections, making it challenging for individuals to contest. Our state, like several others, traditionally had elections with minimal expenditure. Regrettably, in recent years, a similar trend has emerged here. Therefore, “I used to urge people that a vote influenced by money or fear isn’t genuine. It lacks sincerity of heart and mind, critical thinking that Kashmir has regressed for 30-35 years due to militancy and five years due to UT status.”
“The votes from the people of J&K should be free from any external pressure, be it monetary or otherwise. Their choices should reflect their genuine will, guided by their own hearts and minds,” the DPAP chief said, adding, “This authentic vote will determine which party and leader can understand their emotions and contribute to the progress of the state.”
