Srinagar, Aug 27 (KINS): Iltija Mufti, daughter of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Chief Mehbooba Mufti, officially entered the political arena on Tuesday by filing her nomination papers for the Bijbehara constituency in South Kashmir. This marks a significant step in her political journey as she takes on the challenge of contesting from Bijbehara, a traditional stronghold of the PDP.
The Bijbehara constituency, represented by senior PDP leader Abdul Rehman Veeri from 1999 to 2018, holds great significance for the Mufti family. Speaking to reporters after filing her nomination, Iltija said, “The party has shown belief in me and chose me to contest the Bijbehara Assembly constituency. Today, it is a very emotional moment for me, and I am truly honored.”
Iltija also reflected on her family’s deep political roots in Bijbehara, noting that both her grandfather, Mufti Mohammad Sayeed, and her mother, Mehbooba Mufti, began their political careers in the same constituency. “This is a continuation of a legacy, and it is a privilege to be part of this tradition,” she added.
Notably, Mehbooba Mufti has vowed not to contest Assembly elections until Jammu and Kashmir’s statehood is restored, further highlighting the significance of Iltija’s candidacy for the PDP.
Iltija’s political engagement deepened during the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, where she campaigned extensively for her mother, who ran unsuccessfully for the Anantnag seat.
Her entry into the Assembly elections in Bijbehara signals the next chapter in the Mufti family’s political legacy.
As Iltija Mufti makes her electoral debut, all eyes are on Bijbehara to see how her candidacy will impact the upcoming elections in this critical PDP bastion. (KINS)
Iltija Mufti makes electoral debut, Files nomination from Bijbehara
