Shabroz Malik
Baramulla, Aug, 26-: Janata Dal (United) [JD(U)] State President G.M. Shaheen declared that his party will actively pursue the restoration of statehood and the release of political prisoners if it comes to power in Jammu and Kashmir after the upcoming Assembly elections.
Speaking to media persons on the sidelines of a public rally organized in the Kreeri Baramulla, GM Shaheen emphasized that JD(U) is a part of the Central government and will leverage this position to restore statehood to Jammu and Kashmir.
“We have clearly stated in our election manifesto that we will secure the release of all youths currently imprisoned, including those booked under stone-pelting cases,” he asserted.
Shaheen mentioned that he had already initiated the process for the release of youths from jails, but the process was stalled due to the announcement of Assembly elections in the region. “I have submitted a list of 800 youths to the Ministry of Home Affairs. I will continue to follow up on this matter once the elections are over,” he assured.
Addressing the strong public response in Kreeri and surrounding areas, Shaheen said, “The people here have shown overwhelming support for our party. We will continue to reach out to other areas like Tangmarg and beyond.”
Criticizing the election manifestos released by other regional parties, Shaheen pointed out that these parties do not hold a majority in the Parliament and are not part of the Central government. “Their tall claims, such as providing free electricity, are simply misleading the public. Where will they get the resources from?” he questioned.
He further argued that even if local parties form the government, the Chief Minister would be “powerless,” lacking the authority to make significant decisions, such as transferring a police constable. “Yet, they claim to provide free electricity,” he remarked.
Shaheen reiterated that JD(U) is part of the Indian government and will use its resources to benefit Jammu and Kashmir. “We will restore statehood and ensure the release of all youths from jails,” he promised.
Additionally, GM Shaheen extended an open invitation to Jamaat-e-Islami (JeI) members willing to participate in the Assembly elections, stating, “Our doors are open to all JeI members. It will be beneficial for our party to have strong candidates contesting in the elections.
