The People's Democratic Party (PDP) announced on Saturday that it is prepared to extend full support to the coalition of the National Conference (NC) and Congress in the upcoming assembly elections.
PDP chief Mehbooba Mufti assured that her party would concede all seats to the coalition partners if they agree to the PDP’s agenda.
“If the Congress and the NC are ready to accept our agenda, which includes the resolution of the Kashmir issue and the opening of routes, we will ask them to contest all the seats, and we will support them,” she stated. “For me, resolving the Kashmir problem is much more important than anything else.”
Mehbooba Mufti made these remarks following the release of the PDP’s manifesto for the assembly elections.
She ruled out any possibility of an alliance with the BJP, stating, “It is important to clarify that our previous alliance with the BJP was based on a specific agenda which they agreed to. In contrast, the NC-Congress alliance is based solely on seat-sharing, not on an agenda.”
“Our agenda is to address the Jammu and Kashmir issue, even within the framework of the Indian Constitution,” Mehbooba added.
The PDP manifesto aims to restore constitutional guarantees that were “unjustly removed” and to bring Jammu and Kashmir back to its original position, ensuring that the voices of the people are heard and their rights protected.
The manifesto also outlines the PDP’s commitment to diplomatic initiatives between India and Pakistan, focusing on conflict resolution, confidence-building measures, and regional cooperation.
It includes pledges for full connectivity across the Line of Control (LoC) to facilitate trade and social exchange if the party comes to power.
Additional promises include revoking the Public Safety Act, the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, and the Enemy Act to end the arbitrary arrest of political and social activists, journalists, and concerned residents.
The PDP also promises free electricity for up to 200 units and free water for households, as well as implementing the Old Pension Scheme (OPS) for government employees in place of the current National Pension System (NPS). The party has also vowed to expedite the process of identifying and filling all government vacancies within one year.
In comparing manifestos, it is noted that regional parties have made similar promises to attract voters.
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