Srinagar, Aug 23: Janata Dal (United) J&K President G M Shaheen on Friday said that if voted to power, the party will take Kashmiri apples to international markets and revoke all the cases against stone pelters.
Addressing a press conference here, Shaheen said the party’s manifesto will ensure a special package for Jammu & Kashmir. “We are committed to making J&K a leading financial state in the country. Our priority will be to revoke the cases of stone pelters and release prisoners from jails,” he said.
He said that as part of reconciliation efforts, the party will review cases and facilitate the release of political prisoners and stone pelters to promote peace and reconciliation. “JD(U) is dedicated to securing a transformative special package to elevate Jammu & Kashmir as a premier financial hub in India, driving unparalleled economic growth and prosperity,” he said.
We are committed to restoring statehood to Jammu & Kashmir as pledged by the Home Minister Amit Shah “to empower local governance and representation”, he added
The JD(U) leader said the primary and guaranteed objectives of the manifesto include restoring rights and dignity, reinstating all repealed and amended laws to honour the wishes of the people and “restoring their self-respect and dignity”.
“We will demand special protective legislation that will enact a special law to provide constitutional guarantees for the protection of jobs and land for the people of Jammu & Kashmir, ensuring local resources and employment opportunities are safeguarded,” he said.
JDU’s manifesto further mentioned that as part of the Unemployment Allowance Programme, the party will provide financial support to youth till they secure suitable employment or achieve business success.
“We promise Rs 5,000 per month for graduates, Rs 7,000 per month for postgraduates and Rs 10,000 per month for M Phil/PhD scholars,” he said.
Shaheed also promised to ensure ration supplies are tailored to household needs and delivered directly to homes to enhance convenience and food security.
He assured well-equipped shelters for the homeless, and safe and hygienic living conditions with access to essential services such as food, healthcare and job training. “We are committed to offering free education from primary through higher levels, with quality learning materials and facilities, and to providing free healthcare services, including consultations, treatments, surgeries and medicines at government facilities,” he added.
Meanwhile, on the occasion, Moulana Dr Gul Mohammad Azhari, a prominent cleric, joined the JD(U) as their candidate for the Anantnag (West) constituency.
“Clerics like Azhari Sahib can play a vital role in shaping society. Their integrity and connection with the people make them essential in bringing about positive change,” he said.
Shaheen said Dr Azhari’s entry into the election race comes at a time when the region is poised for political transformation, with various parties vying to address the concerns of the people.
The party also announced Dr Mohammad Ayoub Mattoo, a “renowned politician and health expert”, as their candidate for the Anantnag (South) constituency.
