KINS Correspondent
Srinagar, Oct 22 (KINS): Apni Party candidate for Budgam Assembly constituency, Mukhtar Ahmad Dar, on Wednesday accused the National Conference (NC) of being responsible for the prolonged underdevelopment of Budgam district.
Dar, one of the 17 candidates contesting the upcoming Budgam bypoll, told news agency Kashmir Indepth News Service (KINS) that Budgam continues to be among the most neglected districts in Kashmir. “There are no proper health facilities. People are craving for drinking water and electricity. Roads are in pathetic condition,” Dar said.
He said he is contesting the elections on the Apni Party’s manifesto, which focuses on restoring people’s rights and ensuring social justice. “In our manifesto, we want the Public Safety Act (PSA) to be revoked. Our party is committed to granting general amnesty to political prisoners and establishing rehabilitation centres for youth involved in drug abuse,” he said.
Highlighting his decade-long involvement in social work, Dar asserted that his entry into politics was driven by a desire to serve people rather than pursue personal gain. “Ninety percent of politicians join politics for money. But my aim is purely to serve the public,” he said.
On why he chose to join the Apni Party, Dar said he found its mission “pro-people and transparent.” “There are many political parties, but the Apni Party president Altaf Bukhari speaks the truth. Our leadership has clearly stated that Jammu and Kashmir’s progress is possible only through cooperation with the Centre. However, NC and PDP twisted this statement and spread propaganda, branding us as the ‘B-Team of BJP.’ People have now understood their game plan,” he said.
Dar also criticized Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, alleging that the NC government failed to deliver on its promises. “What happened to NC’s promises of 200 free electricity units, 12 gas cylinders, and one lakh jobs?” he asked. (KINS)
