Altaf Bukhari, leader of the Apni Party, emphasized his commitment to the welfare of Jammu and Kashmir, stating that the formation of his party was necessary for the region’s progress. He highlighted that his party has succeeded in bringing the voice of Jammu and Kashmir to Delhi, asserting that their influence has been instrumental in making the government listen to the region’s needs.
Bukhari took credit for the release of nearly 300 individuals from jails, showcasing his party’s active role in addressing local grievances. Speaking about the relationship between Jammu and Kashmir and the central government, he stressed, “The problems of Jammu and Kashmir can be solved only by Delhi (Central Government).” He also noted that the union territory’s political future is closely tied to its connection with Delhi, calling it an “integral part” of the region’s politics.
Bukhari further emphasized the role of leadership within Jammu and Kashmir, stating, “The Lieutenant Governor is the captain of Jammu and Kashmir, and Omar Abdullah is the vice-captain.” He also affirmed that his party had established a core agenda for the region’s future and vowed to work towards its realization.
Regarding the return of statehood to Jammu and Kashmir, Bukhari expressed his confidence that only the Apni Party could achieve this goal. “Only Apni Party can bring back statehood to Jammu and Kashmir,” he said.
Addressing the issue of merit and reservation in Jammu and Kashmir, Bukhari highlighted the importance of both factors in the region’s progress, stressing that, “In Jammu and Kashmir, reservation must be accompanied by merit.”
He also noted that the National Conference had only recently come to realize that the Apni Party’s stance was correct all along. “National Conference has only now understood what Apni Party had been saying all along,” Bukhari remarked.
Finally, he reiterated his balanced position in dealing with Delhi, stating, “I am as far away from Delhi as I should be and as close to Delhi as I can be to put forward the views of my people.”
