SRINAGAR, Sep 16: Apni Party president Altaf Bukhari stated on Wednesday that the restoration of statehood to Jammu and Kashmir necessitates persistent dialogue and persuasion with the central government, advocating against confrontational approaches.
Information was available with The Chenab Times that when questioned about the anticipated roadmap for statehood restoration, Bukhari emphasized that dialogue is the sole viable path forward. He explicitly rejected confrontation as a means to achieve this objective, citing the region’s history since 1947.
“J-K has seen enough confrontation since 1947. You have to convince, you have an argument. It may not be easy, but Delhi has to be convinced and we have an argument,” Bukhari told reporters in Jammu. He highlighted the historical significance of Jammu and Kashmir, referring to its status as a state with a 200-year-old legacy.
Bukhari drew a parallel with the recent public mobilization in Ladakh, suggesting that the people of Jammu and Kashmir could similarly articulate their collective voice. He noted that if a population of 250,000 in Ladakh could make their concerns heard, the 13 million people of Jammu and Kashmir might also achieve this with courage. However, he expressed concern that political parties had potentially compromised the region’s bargaining power, hindering their ability to present a strong argument.
The Apni Party chief also raised questions regarding the agenda of a proposed all-party meeting scheduled before the upcoming Assembly session. He specifically questioned whether the meeting would address significant issues or primarily focus on matters such as increasing legislators’ salaries. Bukhari contrasted this with the ongoing protests by medical employees and MBBS interns who are demanding an increase in their internship allowance and other benefits.
While articulating his opposition to certain government policies, Bukhari clarified that this stance does not equate to supporting any undemocratic attempts to destabilize the current administration. He affirmed that the existence of an elected government is the last democratic gift from the Government of India, and any removal should stem from the will of the people through democratic processes, not external interference. He pledged continued opposition through legitimate means until the people decide otherwise.
Furthermore, Bukhari called for a broader discussion on caste-based legislation and reservation policies. He suggested a re-examination of these frameworks after 76 years of implementation, particularly concerning the equitable distribution of benefits and whether they should continue to accrue to the same families or be provided at the entry level. He indicated that he would further elaborate on these complex issues at a suitable seminar or discussion forum.
The Chenab Times News Desk