Srinagar, Sep 01: People’s Democratic Party Youth President and assembly candidate for Pulwama Constituency, Waheed Ur Rehman Parra on Sunday said if Jamaat-e-Islami had approached the PDP President Mehbooba Mufti, she would have accommodated its candidates and given tickets to them.
Parra in a statement said the PDP has always prioritised inclusive politics and engagement with diverse groups, regardless of their ideological affiliations, to ensure the broadest possible representation of the people of Jammu & Kashmir.
He said Mehbooba Mufti has always believed in dialogue, reconciliation and inclusion. “If Jamaat-e-Islami had reached out to PDP, we would have considered seat allocations to bring together all voices within the democratic framework. Even if it meant sacrificing many seats, we would have accommodated them,” he said. “We believe that every group, party and especially those representing significant sections of society, deserves a place at the table.”
Parra said the PDP’s approach has always been to bridge divides and ensure that all communities, irrespective of their backgrounds, have a say in shaping the future of the region.
“If Jamaat-e-Islami wants to contest elections, it is a positive development. Democracy is a battle of ideas. The government should lift the ban on it. We would have accommodated them and provided sufficient space, seats, and opportunities to contest,” he said.
The PDP leader added, “If our party comes to power, we will lift the ban on Jamaat-e-Islami. Such an inclusive approach is essential for lasting peace, tranquillity, prosperity and stability in Jammu & Kashmir.”
