Srinagar, July 31 (KNS): People’s Democratic Party youth president Waheed ur Rehman Parra on Monday, while targeting its PAGD Alliance partner National Conference said that his party did not engage in election rigging and created organisations like Special Operations Group (SOG) or Ikhwan, nor it resorted to executions to hold onto power.
Parra, while addressing a convention on the occasion of 24th Foundation Day of the party, criticised the Nc and said that those responsible for past electoral manipulations and violence were now seeking elections and alliances in New Delhi.
He said that power alone cannot address the longstanding issues in Jammu and Kashmir, as evidenced by the continued deaths and violence under successive regimes.
He said that PDP's disagreement with the BJP wasn't about power but rather centered around the Agenda of Alliance. “The PDP desired the BJP to ensure lasting peace and dignity for the people of Jammu and Kashmir through an inclusive political process and by ending the siege around Kashmir.”
He added that PDP aimed to promote dialogue and a peaceful democratic approach to end shutdowns, and the gun culture in the region.
He, however, criticised the elements that obstructed their process and pointed out that the government resorted to force to achieve peace.
He also said that some focused on personal gains like perks, privileges, or forming alliances with the BJP, while he highlighted that PDP's workers were dedicated to uphold dignity and democracy.
Parra underscored Mehbooba Mufti's stand for the people and the dignity of Jammu and Kashmir, saying that she faced challenges due to her principled approach.
He said that the party faced internal challenges even before the revocation of Article 370, as it represented the only democratic resistance that the BJP encountered on the ground.
“Mehbooba Mufti's decision to lead an all-party delegation to the doors of APHC was a historic opportunity for dialogue, but unfortunately, they closed their doors for talks, which was a big setback.”
He added that the intention was to end shutdowns and promote a peaceful democratic process to address grievances, including the gun culture. “However, some elements failed to support our efforts, leading the government to use force to restore peace, which seemed to be effective for them.”
Meanwhile, while reacting to Parra’s statement, National Conference state spokesperson Imran Nabi Dar said that it seems hi intention was to sow confusion among the opposition ranks.
“If you feel suffocated within the alliance, simply walk away instead of resorting to fake narratives to justify your actions. While we are aware of your historical blunders, our priority was Unity,” he said. (KNS)