Excelsior Correspondent
ANANTNAG, May 22: People’s Democratic Party Youth president Waheed- Ur- Rehman Parra today said that People’s Democratic Party president Mehbooba Mufti will build consensus in Parliament to abolish the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA).
Addressing public meeting in south Kashmir Parra highlighted that the UAPA, often used as a tool of abuse, has alarming statistics: 66% of cases involve no violence, 56% result in detainees held without chargesheets for two years, and the conviction rate since 2014 stands at a mere 2.4%. He stressed that if elected, Mufti will work towards repealing this law, which is as a gross abuse of power.
Parra reiterated PDP’s stance against draconian laws like the UAPA, which are used to silence dissent and curtail civil liberties. He emphasized that the UAPA undermines democratic principles, allowing prolonged detentions without trial and violating fundamental rights.
Asserting the importance of voting as a means to shape the future and reclaim rights, Parra urged people of South Kashmir to support Mehbooba Mufti, aligning with her vision of justice, unity, and resilience. He portrayed Mufti’s stance against the UAPA as a call for restoring the rule of law and ensuring no unjust persecution. He emphasized that abolishing the UAPA is vital for restoring peace and trust in society.
Parra affirmed PDP’s commitment to securing the release of Kashmiri youths detained under stringent laws like the UAPA and the Public Safety Act (PSA). Drawing from personal experience, having spent two years in incarceration, Parra expressed solidarity with the incarcerated youth, advocating for their voices to be heard nationally.
He outlined Mufti’s agenda to address the genuine aspirations of the people, including granting amnesty to youth and students for a dignified life. He pledged to fight for the release of political prisoners and facilitate their return home to reunite with their families. Parra emphasized the financial and emotional hardships faced by these families and promised to advocate for their concerns if elected in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections.