Suhail Bhat
SRINAGAR, July 7: Former Law Minister Syed Basharat Bukhari, who recently rejoined the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), today expressed admiration for the party’s resilience since 2019 and reaffirmed his commitment to serving the people with honesty and dedication.
Bukhari, who had been expelled from the PDP in 2018 due to alleged anti-party activities following the collapse of the PDP-BJP coalition government in Jammu and Kashmir, described his time away from the party as a period of personal growth and learning.
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“Many significant events unfolded during these years, such as the abrogation of Article 370 and the challenges posed by COVID-19. I personally experienced hardship, including being under house arrest for a year and a half. It was a unique test, which I view as essential for my growth,” he said.
Acknowledging the PDP’s resilience during challenging times, Bukhari emphasized the party’s courage and determination since its government dissolution on June 19, 2018, underscoring the collective hardships faced by the people and political parties alike.
Regarding his support for the National Conference (NC) in the last Lok Sabha elections before rejoining the PDP, Bukhari clarified, “We supported the best candidate regardless of party affiliation. Despite being an independent candidate at the time, I felt accountable to the people and, after thorough discussions, found Omar Abdullah to be the most suitable candidate,” he said.
Bukhari explained that his decision to join the PDP was reached democratically, after consultations with party workers and considering the PDP’s track record. He highlighted the party’s inclusive decision-making process and expressed gratitude for the support he received from his political colleagues.
Reflecting on his experiences over the past six years, Bukhari characterized them as invaluable, emphasizing his commitment to consulting with party workers whom he considers his family when making decisions.
When asked about his new responsibilities within the PDP, Bukhari said, “It”s not about titles but about a state of mind dedicated to honesty and service. I have already begun working towards the betterment of our people,” he said.
Regarding the PDP’s performance in the last Lok Sabha elections in North Kashmir, Bukhari acknowledged the party’s challenges but attributed its support base to local dynamics rather than individual candidates. He pointed out the need for a unified strategy to strengthen the party’s presence at various electoral levels.
Bukhari, who had previously served as Minister for Law, Justice, and Parliamentary Affairs, Relief, and Rehabilitation in the PDP-BJP government, originally joined the PDP in 2003 and was elected from the Sangrama constituency in North Kashmir’s Baramulla district in 2008 and 2014. His political journey has seen affiliations with various parties, including a recent stint with the People’s Conference before his expulsion in June 2023.
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