PULWAMA — Peoples Democratic Party Youth President and Assembly election candidate for Pulwama constituency Waheed-ur-Rehman Para on Sunday said that if Jamaat-e-Islami had approached the PDP President Mehbooba Mufti, she would have accommodated Jamaat-e-Islami candidates and given them tickets.
Para emphasized that the PDP has always prioritized inclusive politics and engagement with diverse groups, regardless of their ideological affiliations, to ensure the broadest possible representation of the people of Jammu and Kashmir.
He emphasized that Mehbooba Mufti has always believed in dialogue, reconciliation and inclusion. “If Jamaat-e-Islami had reached out to PDP, we would have considered seat allocations to bring together all voices within the democratic framework. Even if it meant sacrificing many seats, we would have accommodated them.”
Para asserted that the PDP’s commitment is to the people of Jammu and Kashmir, and the party believes that every group or party, especially those representing significant sections of society, deserves a place at the table.
He added that the PDP’s approach has always been to bridge divides and ensure that all communities, irrespective of their backgrounds, have a say in shaping the future of the region. “If Jamaat-e-Islami wants to contest elections, it is a positive development. Democracy is a battle of ideas. The government should lift the ban on it. We would have accommodated them and provided sufficient space, seats and opportunities to contest.”
Para added that if PDP comes to power, it will make efforts to lift the ban on Jamaat-e-Islami. He reiterated that such an inclusive approach is essential for lasting peace, tranquillity, prosperity and stability in Jammu and Kashmir.
