Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) on Friday fiercely criticized the BJP’s move to nominate five MLAs before government formation in Jammu and Kashmir, calling it a direct affront to democracy.
Dr. Mehboob Beg, senior PDP leader and former Parliamentarian, in an exclusive interview with news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), expressed serious concerns over the decision, stating that replacing elected representatives with nominated members is an assault on the already disenfranchised people of Jammu and Kashmir.
Beg remarked, “Elected members represent the will of the people, and they cannot be substituted by nominees chosen by the Lieutenant Governor. This move is not just unhealthy, but it’s also an insult to the democratic institution in the region. It appears the BJP is playing a dangerous game with national interests by undermining the essence of elections.”
He further criticized the BJP for conflating their party’s interests with those of the nation. “The BJP is confusing the people. Their interests are not synonymous with national interests. No responsible government would have taken such a step in the middle of crucial elections in Jammu and Kashmir. Comparing this to Pondicherry is demeaning. Jammu and Kashmir, once a fully empowered state, is now being reduced to a Union Territory – this was never part of the promise made to its people. It is a sheer humiliation,” said Beg.
Dr. Beg also pointed out the extraordinary intervention by the Supreme Court to ensure elections in J&K after a decade of stagnation. “Where else in the country does the Supreme Court have to intervene to safeguard the people’s right to vote? Is holding elections in Kashmir a favor?” he questioned.
On the political future of the PDP, Beg asserted that the party will play a pivotal role in the post-election landscape and is confident of securing the maximum number of seats. Addressing speculations about potential alliances, he emphasized that PDP’s top priority is to prevent the BJP’s “onslaught” in Kashmir. “Stopping the BJP’s harmful agenda towards the people of Kashmir will be our only priority, and we will do whatever it takes to achieve that.”—(KNO)
