PDP bringing people together, not driving them apart: Mehbooba

Srinagar, Apr 27: People’s Democratic Party president Mehbooba Mufti on Saturday said the PDP is bringing people together and not driving them apart. She said people have collectively come together for redressal of our problems.
Addressing a roadshow in Mendhar, Poonch, Mufti expressed gratitude for the warm welcome from all parts of society, including the Paharis and Gujjars.
“My and PDP’s role is vital in bringing people together rather than driving them apart. Collective action is needed to address our challenges. Everyone is impacted by problems, and in times of ease, everyone reaps the benefits,” she said.
The former chief minister said the election is not just about fixing roads and electricity. “There are bigger problems, like unemployment, that we need to talk about and the changes made by the government in 2019 of splitting Jammu and Kashmir into two parts,” she said.
Mehbooba asked for voters’ support, understanding what people in Poonch need, like a medical college, extending the railway, and finishing the Parnai hydroelectric project.
“I am aware of the demands of the people of Poonch which include a medical college, extension of the rail link and completion of the under-construction Parnai hydro-electric project,” she said.
The PDP chief assured the people that once she is elected to the parliament, she will raise their issues and utilise the MP local area development fund to address their minor issues.
Mufti is currently on a week-long tour of Poonch and Rajouri districts to garner public support. She addressed a road show in Poonch town despite pouring rain.
“These elections are important and serve as a crucial platform to resist the erosion of Jammu and Kashmir’s identity and interests. People should come out of their homes and support us,” she said.
Pointing to issues such as land appropriation, resource exploitation, and rampant unemployment, the PDP president called on people to recognise the broader significance of their participation beyond mere infrastructural promises.
During the rally, Mufti also spoke about the tough times her party faced and how they stood firm “despite pressure”. “Some people tried to divide our party, but our members stayed loyal. Now, there is a chance to voice your cause through votes,” she said.
Mehbooba urged people not to skip voting. She promised to represent their views in Parliament, especially regarding the decision made on August 5, 2019.