Excelsior Correspondent
Srinagar, Sept 21: Elections are the only way to regain what J&K has lost over the years and provide a platform to set things right, People’s Democratic Party (PDP) leader and former Minister Asiya Naqash said.
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In an interview to Excelsior, Naqash, who is contesting on the PDP ticket from the Hazratbal constituency, said that what happened in 2019 has “disheartened” the people and goes beyond a mere decision, involving the division of a State into two Union Territories.
“It made people sad. What used to be a large State since 1931 was divided into two. In this scenario, elections are the only way to regain what has been lost. After having an Assembly, we can work towards resolving other issues, because it will provide a platform,” she said.
She added, “We need a stronger Assembly, one platform for deliberating and addressing common issues, regardless of who comes to power.”
On delimitation, Naqash said that the exercise has affected her constituency, with areas that were previously part of two different constituencies now falling under the Hazratbal segment.
“The people who were representing these segments were from the PDP, Abid Ansari and Ashraf Mir. In those areas, there is anger, and now it’s all on me, but that’s how it is. I’m dealing with it, though it becomes difficult at times,” she said.
When asked why she remained with the party when others left, Asiya said, “I am with the party by conviction, not emotion. I support the agenda of Mufti Sayeed, as he wanted to make J&K a hub of economic activities. He advocated for dialogue and aimed to make J&K an example of stability.”
She also claimed that the youth of Kashmir stand with the PDP because, she said, “people find solace with the PDP as it advocates for living with dignity, peace with dignity.”
On the PAGD-an alliance formed by Kashmir-based political parties to fight for the return of Article 370-the PDP leader said that it was a “sentiment” people were associating with.
“People wanted the leadership to be united. They had reposed faith and confidence.”
In her constituency, she said that the main competitor is the National Conference, but stressed that she believes in focusing on delivering on the ground.
“This area used to be an NC bastion, but we worked hard, and in 2014, we were able to convince the people. I don’t believe in political bickering; I am focused on work and the betterment of the constituency,” she added.
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