AIP releases manifesto, promises prisoner release and repeal of controversial laws

SRINAGAR — Jailed Er Rashid’s Awami Itihad Party (AIP) on Saturday released its manifesto ahead of Assembly elections in J&K in which it promised unconditional release of all prisoners languishing in jails.

Besides, the party said it will utilize its efforts to revoke laws like the Public Safety Act (PSA) and Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA).

Addressing a press conference here in Srinagar, the party leaders asserted that there will be a complete ban on liquor sales, besides free medical tests in the hospitals across Jammu and Kashmir if AIP is elected to power.

It maintained that AIP will work on the restoration of schemes and autonomous status of the University of Kashmir. Further, it also promised free computers to students who have qualified 8th standard.

“The party is committed to safeguarding the interests of the people of Jammu and Kashmir. Let us have a chance to serve people. We will try our every bit to safeguard students and traders studying and working outside Jammu and Kashmir,” party leaders said.

It also added that the decades-old Darbar move, which was cancelled by the present dispensation a few years ago, will also be restored for the larger interest of Jammu and Kashmir.

Notably AIP chief, who is currently lodged in Tihar Jail on charges of a ‘terror-funding’ case, has won Lok Sabha elections from north Kashmir’s Baramulla segment in April this year. He defeated his rival and former chief minister Omar Abdullah with a huge margin of votes.