Srinagar, July 26(KNS): Sarwar Mufti, cousin of former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti, on Friday joined the Apni Party. Speaking at the event, Mufti said he was motivated by the need to address the everyday challenges faced by residents of his hometown Bijbehara.

Mufti said Bijbehara, despite its significance, has been reduced to a neglected settlement. He pointed out that the Sub-District Hospital exists only in name and lacks basic medical facilities. "Patients are referred elsewhere due to the lack of services. The hospital is being run by EHCA, but nothing functions properly," he said.

He further highlighted the drinking water crisis in the area, claiming that women are forced to protest daily. "In an era when people talk about missions to Mars, our women are on roads asking for water," he added, noting that the water supplied is not fit for consumption.

Mufti also raised concerns about infrastructure, including the condition of roads.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel"A 50-year-old road is still being used without improvement," he said.

He criticized the government's decision to bypass Bijbehara in the four-lane highway project, which he said has led to the town's economic and infrastructural decline.

Describing himself as a grassroots worker, Mufti said his focus will remain on everyday issues like health, water, roads, and education. He pointed out that students, especially girls, travel 40 to 60 kilometers for education due to lack of local facilities.

Mufti also criticized previous governments and political parties for failing to protect Jammu and Kashmir's special status and land rights. He referenced the abrogation of Article 370 and 35A, saying that local leaders did not mobilize in time to safeguard the region’s identity.

"I stand here for land and basic rights. We will support Apni Party if it supports our people in return," Mufti said, addressing Apni Party leader Altaf Bukhari.(KNS).