Srinagar, Sept 17: Apni Party president Syed Mohammad Altaf Bukhari on Tuesday criticised political alliances, saying that other parties are unable to contest the assembly elections independently, unlike his party.
In an exclusive interview with Rising Kashmir, he said people are facing hardships on the ground and suffering from basic problems including unemployment issues, huge electricity bills, drinking water and other issues.
“During the door-to-door campaign in Chanapora Constituency, people talk to me and speak about the issues they are facing, there is no one who would listen to their pleas. We are on the ground, listening to the people and hope that they will answer the same on voting day,” he said.
On the alliances of the National Conference and Congress, Awami Ittehad Party and Jamaat-e-Islami, Bukhari said it is good to see people actively participating in elections but at the same time, political parties are making alliances as they are not able to fight these elections alone.
“They have their own strategy, and the Apni Party has its own plans. We do not have any alliance with any political party,” he said.
On the departure of several prominent members from his party over the past two months, the Apni Party chief said, “It was their decision, and I wish them the best of luck. May Almighty help them succeed in their plans. Some of them are contesting independently, but they are still our people.”
When asked about supporting south Kashmir’s jailed preacher Sarjan Barkati in Beerwah, Bukhari said all prisoners should be relased. “We hope all those in jails will be released so they can reunite with their families,” he said.
“If we come to power, we will release all prisoners and grant a one-time general amnesty. Our jails will be emptied, and it will take 50 years to fill them again. The youth of Kashmir should embrace the path of peace,” he added.
Altaf Bukhari urged the government to “stop harassing” the youth. ‘Our children deserve a dignified life, and we will not compromise on this. No one should face undue harassment,” he said.
