Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir – Social media influencer Mateena Jeelani formally joined the Jammu and Kashmir Apni Party on Saturday. The joining ceremony took place at the party headquarters in Srinagar, with Apni Party President Syed Mohammad Altaf Bukhari present.
Jeelani, who hails from Rajpora Rajwar village in the Handwara area of Kupwara district in north Kashmir, cited the Apni Party’s focus on youth engagement and grassroots development as key reasons for her decision. She expressed her admiration for Bukhari’s leadership and the party’s commitment to the welfare of the people.
In her statement, Jeelani highlighted her belief that the youth need to play a more active role in public life to bring about positive change. She stated that the people of Handwara have felt neglected and expressed a desire for improved development and opportunities in the region. She indicated that her decision to enter politics was driven by a motivation to contribute to change and encourage greater youth participation.
The Jammu and Kashmir Apni Party, founded on March 8, 2020, by Altaf Bukhari, positions itself as a regional political entity focused on advocating for the restoration of statehood to Jammu and Kashmir and addressing local issues. The party emphasizes a pragmatic approach to governance and aims to represent the common people.
The Apni Party’s platform includes a commitment to safeguarding land and government job rights for local residents, facilitating the return of displaced Kashmiri Hindus, and opposing dynastic politics. The party has actively engaged with the Union Government on issues concerning Jammu and Kashmir since its inception, aiming to bridge the gap between the populace and the administration.
Jeelani’s entry into politics as a social media influencer reflects a growing trend of public figures from digital platforms venturing into mainstream politics, seeking to leverage their existing reach to mobilize support and advocate for regional concerns.
❤️ Support Independent Journalism
Your contribution keeps our reporting free, fearless, and accessible to everyone.
Or make a one-time donation
Secure via Razorpay • 12 monthly payments • Cancel anytime before next cycle
(We don't allow anyone to copy content. For Copyright or Use of Content related questions, visit here.)
The Chenab Times News Desk
![A map of the disputed region created by the US Central Intelligence Agency and hosted by the University of Texas-Austin Perry-Castañeda Library Map Collection; altered to show new jurisdictions,[1][2…](https://thechenabtimes.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/A-map-of-the-disputed-region-created-by-the-US-Central-Intel-1068x1060.jpg "Jammu and Kashmir National Conference Holds Protest in Delhi for Statehood Restoration")
