SRINAGAR: The People’s Democratic Party (PDP), led by its president and former Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti, convened a key meeting in Srinagar on Thursday to review its performance in the recent Jammu and Kashmir Assembly elections. Senior party leaders discussed the party’s future strategy, focusing on rebuilding and reconnecting with the people across the region.
A PDP spokesperson reaffirmed the party’s commitment to its founding principles of dialogue and reconciliation, highlighting these as vital solutions to Jammu and Kashmir’s ongoing challenges. “The principles on which the PDP was founded remain highly relevant, serving as the most appropriate remedy for the issues facing Jammu and Kashmir. Dialogue is at the core of our mission, and we will continue raising concerns of the people while supporting the government in securing the constitutional rights of the region,” the spokesperson said.
The party is set to draft detailed proposals aimed at enhancing its grassroots presence and solidifying its role as a democratic alternative. Despite recent setbacks, including a significant exodus of leaders and representatives, the spokesperson stressed that the PDP remains a strong political force. “This election proves that the PDP is here to stay. We will rebuild, address our weaknesses, and expand our base to ensure effective voter mobilisation in future elections,” he added.
The party is preparing for upcoming municipal, panchayat, and District Development Council (DDC) elections with renewed vigour. The PDP plans to activate its grassroots network in line with the political vision of its founder, Mufti Mohammad Sayeed. The party also sees its younger members, many of whom left established careers to join politics, as integral to its future. “These young talents are crucial to the PDP’s progress and will receive guidance from senior leaders to hone their political skills,” the spokesperson noted.
Reflecting on past achievements, the party leadership highlighted successes under Mufti Mohammad Sayeed and Mehbooba Mufti, particularly in improving connectivity, opening cross-border routes, and advancing education and healthcare. The PDP aims to carry forward this legacy, positioning itself as a credible democratic alternative for the people of Jammu and Kashmir.
The meeting was attended by several recently elected MLAs, including Mir Mohammad Fayaz, Waheed ur Rehman Para, and Rafeeq Ahmed Naik, as well as senior leaders Abdul Rahman Veeri, Dr Mehboob Beg, Sartaj Madni, and others.
The PDP’s renewed focus on rebuilding and grassroots engagement signals its determination to remain a key political player in Jammu and Kashmir, despite past challenges.