Bandipora, Aug 7 (JKNS): Thousands of workers and supporters participated in a workers’ convention organised by the Jammu and Kashmir Apni Party in Hajin, Sonawari, on Friday, with party president Syed Mohammad Altaf Bukhari reiterating his party’s long-standing demand for the restoration of statehood to Jammu and Kashmir.
Addressing reporters on the sidelines of the convention, as per news agency JKNS, Bukhari said that although several political parties are now demanding the restoration of statehood, the Apni Party has consistently advocated the issue since its inception.
“Today, other political parties are raising the demand for statehood, but Apni Party has been taking this stand and conveying this message to the people for the last six years,” he said.
Commenting on the registration of an FIR against Iltija Mufti, Bukhari appealed for a compassionate approach, saying, “She is still young, and young people do make mistakes. She is like a daughter to me, and she should be forgiven.”
Responding to remarks made by a former RAW chief regarding Article 370, Bukhari said every individual is entitled to express a personal opinion.
“That is his personal viewpoint, and I do not wish to comment on it,” he said.
Referring to the recently held political meeting addressed by the Srinagar Member of Parliament, Bukhari said he had expected a fresh political vision but found the discussions largely reflected conventional political narratives.
“I had hoped that something new would emerge from the meeting, but I did not see anything out of the ordinary. The discussion largely reflected conventional political narratives,” he added.
The convention concluded with party leaders reaffirming their commitment to continue working for the welfare of the people and raising public issues across Jammu and Kashmir. Party leaders described the large turnout as a reflection of growing public engagement with the party’s programmes and agenda. (JKNS)
