FOUNDATION DAY
As the Jammu and Kashmir Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) marks its 26th Foundation Day on July 28th, it is an occasion not just of celebration, but of reflection—on a political journey rooted in the aspirations of the people of Jammu and Kashmir, and on the enduring legacy of its founding father, Mufti Mohammad Sayeed.
Founded in 1999 by Mufti Mohammad Syed, a towering statesman and the first and probably the last Muslim Home Minister of the Republic of India, the PDP was born at a time when the political landscape of Jammu and Kashmir was mired in monopoly, mistrust, and misrepresentation. The people had grown weary of political stagnation, disempowerment, and a governance style that failed to reflect their voice. It was in this atmosphere of deep alienation that Mufti Mohammad Sayeed envisioned a political platform that would restore dignity, confidence, and agency to the people of Jammu and Kashmir.
The PDP emerged as the only credible and viable political alternative in Jammu and Kashmir. It challenged the decades-long political hegemony and injected a much-needed democratic vibrancy into the region. Unlike parties that relied on old methods of patronage and control, PDP’s foundation was built on the principles of dialogue, democratic engagement, and regional empowerment.
From its very inception, the PDP sought to bridge the gap between New Delhi and Srinagar—not through force or appeasement, but by advocating for a “battle of ideas” and a dignified discourse. It gave voice to the unheard and platform to the unseen—bringing the grievances and aspirations of the people of Jammu and Kashmir to the national mainstream.
When Mufti Mohammad Sayeed became the Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir in 2002, he redefined governance in the region. His tenure was marked not by grandstanding, but by meaningful reforms that touched the everyday lives of ordinary people.
Under his leadership, the state saw a remarkable expansion of educational infrastructure: new schools, colleges, universities, and medical colleges were established to bring education within the reach of every child, regardless of geography or background. Mufti Sahab understood that empowerment starts in the classroom.
He governed at a time when Jammu and Kashmir was in the grip of militancy and lawlessness was the order of the day. Yet, his approach was not reactive; it was visionary. He brought in transparency and accountability, dismantling a culture of corruption that had taken deep roots. Thousands of qualified youth were provided employment, and importantly, this was done without discrimination—irrespective of cadre, colour, region, or religion.
One of his unsung contributions was his sincere effort to address regional imbalances. Concerns raised by various communities and sub-regions were not brushed aside but were addressed with fairness and inclusivity. He believed in unity through justice, not in forced uniformity.
Even after Mufti Sahab’s passing, the PDP continues to represent the ideals he cherished—peace with dignity, inclusive governance, regional justice, and constitutional safeguards. In the face of unprecedented political challenges, the party has stood firm, refusing to compromise on the identity, dignity, and aspirations of the people it was created to represent.
Today, as Jammu and Kashmir faces newer trials—political disempowerment, administrative alienation, and assaults on its cultural identity—the role of PDP becomes even more critical. It is not merely a political party; it is a movement of conscience, a voice for the silenced, and a bridge between hope and reality.
On this 26th Foundation Day, PDP renews its commitment to the people of Jammu and Kashmir. It pledges to continue the struggle for justice, democracy, and dignity. It will resist all attempts to erase the region’s unique political and cultural identity and will always stand for reconciliation, not repression; for empowerment, not exploitation.
Mufti Mohammad Sayeed once said, “Power is not an end, it is a means—to serve, to heal, and to unite.” As the PDP carries forward his vision, it remains anchored in the belief that the people of Jammu and Kashmir deserve more than just security—they deserve respect, rights, and representation.
This Foundation Day is not just about remembering the past; it is about reclaiming the future.
(The author is a former trade union leader, columnist, TV debater, and currently associated with the PDP, and can be reached out at: [email protected])
