Kashmir Impulse Desk

Srinagar, May 6 

Apni Party President Altaf Bukhari on Tuesday said he stood for people-centric politics and rejected what he described as “family rule” and “deceptive narratives” in Jammu and Kashmir.

Speaking to reporters in Srinagar, Bukhari said the Apni Party was founded on inclusive principles under which “any committed worker can rise to leadership”, adding that neither his family members nor relatives were involved in politics.

He said the party’s objective was to represent the people of Jammu and Kashmir in New Delhi rather than act as an “agent of Delhi” in the region.

Criticising rival political parties, Bukhari alleged that recent elections, particularly the 2024 Assembly polls, were driven by “misleading narratives and emotional polarisation”.

He expressed concern over what he described as the growing trend of elections being fought on religious lines, saying such politics was harmful to the democratic fabric of Jammu and Kashmir.

Commenting on national political developments, Bukhari referred to the electoral situation in West Bengal and said the “voice of the people must be respected in a democracy”.

He also raised concerns about electoral processes that could lead to the disenfranchisement of communities, saying such moves should be resisted.

On social issues, Bukhari reiterated his party’s demand for a ban on alcohol in Jammu and Kashmir, arguing that if prohibition could be implemented in states such as Gujarat and Bihar, it should also be considered in the region.

He expressed support for anti-drug campaigns and described substance abuse as a major threat to society and future generations.

Referring to the security situation after the April 2025 Pahalgam attack, Bukhari said several tourist destinations, including Yusmarg and Doodhpathri, continued to face restrictions. He urged authorities to ensure adequate security measures to fully restore tourism and normalcy.

Taking aim at the National Conference and the People’s Democratic Party, Bukhari accused them of “double standards” in their political alliances and legislative decisions.

He said the Apni Party would continue to focus on governance, transparency and public welfare, urging people to remain engaged in shaping the future of Jammu and Kashmir.