The Kashmir Pulse

PULWAMA — As the political turf of Jammu and Kashmir intensifies ahead of the upcoming Assembly elections, Waheed-ur-Rehman Para, the Youth Wing President of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and the party’s candidate for the Pulwama constituency, spoke in an exclusive video interview on Saturday, offering insights into his political journey, the PDP’s future, and the issues closest to his heart.

Para, who will be contesting in the Assembly elections scheduled for September 18, detailed his motivations for joining the PDP. In conversation with Showkat Dar of The Kashmir Pulse, he explained how witnessing Mehbooba Mufti’s campaigning during a time of deep unrest in the Valley profoundly influenced his decision to align with the party.

“The Valley was gripped by an atmosphere of fear and arrests by the SOG wing of J&K Police, and it was Mehbooba Mufti's campaigns and her commitment to youth empowerment that drew me toward PDP,” Para recalled. He formally joined the party in 2013, recognizing the need to engage young people in a democratic process.

A Youth-Centered Political Vision

Para, who has become a prominent voice for the youth in Kashmir, emphasized that his political involvement stems from a desire to shift perceptions of young Kashmiris. "At a time when youth were often seen as stone-pelters or engaged in violence, I wanted to change that narrative and encourage democratic engagement," Para said.

He believes that while challenges remain, positive changes are beginning to take root. “I am convinced that we are witnessing a shift, and my work will focus on ensuring that this momentum benefits the youth of Kashmir.”

Para is confident that his work with the youth will remain a central part of his political career. "The welfare of the youth will continue to be my priority, as I feel we need to explore better democratic avenues to address the aspirations and frustrations they face."

Addressing the Competition

Regarding the competition he faces from Khalil Bhand, the National Conference (NC) candidate from the same constituency, Para admitted that the battle would be close.

“PDP has a strong base in south Kashmir, and we acknowledge that the competition is tough. However, we are confident that the work done by Mufti Sayeed and Mehbooba Mufti during their tenures will be remembered by the people,” Para stated, noting that the party’s past governance has left a lasting impression.

In addition to discussing the Pulwama constituency, Para also addressed the recent split in Shopian, where several PDP leaders left the party, some joining other political parties and others opting to contest as independents.

“We have to take feedback from the ground, and sometimes, mistakes do happen,” Para said, acknowledging the party's internal challenges. “It is not always possible to keep every member equally satisfied when decisions are made. However, the PDP still has a strong base in Shopian, and efforts are underway to strengthen and unify the cadre.”

Impact of Independent Candidates and Small Parties

With the number of independent candidates and smaller parties, like the Awami Ittehad Party (AIP), contesting in this election, Para admitted there could be an impact on vote shares. “It will certainly split the votes to some degree,” he said. “But it is also the right of every citizen in a democracy to contest, and we respect that right.”

A Vision for Pulwama

Para’s vision for Pulwama extends beyond just the electoral contest. He outlined his plans if elected, focusing on several key areas: addressing the cases of youth imprisoned for political reasons, improving the district’s health sector, ensuring that local residents benefit from the district’s mining contracts, and resolving longstanding drinking water issues.

“The cases of jailed youth (for political reasons) will be my top priority,” Para stated. “We need to work toward resolving these issues so that these young people can lead productive lives.”

Additionally, he stressed the need to develop Pulwama’s healthcare infrastructure, calling it a pressing concern for residents. “There are significant gaps in the health sector, and I will work to bridge those.”

In his vision for the district’s economic future, Para pledged to prioritize local involvement in the allocation of mining contracts, which he sees as a crucial avenue for economic empowerment. “Our people should be the beneficiaries of Pulwama’s natural resources,” he said.

Personal Reflections

The interview also veered briefly into Para’s personal life, touching on his marriage plans. “I have many cases filed against me and have only recently been released from jail,” Para said, alluding to the legal battles he has faced. “Once things normalize, I will be in a better position to make personal decisions in a calmer state of mind.”

Looking Ahead

Given that Waheed-ur-Rehman Para is preparing for the electoral contest in Pulwama, his message remains centered on the youth, their future, and the need for political and economic reforms. His journey from a young observer of Mehbooba Mufti’s campaigns to a key figure in PDP is an indication of the values he champions. Focussed on tackling the pressing challenges, Para is hoping to carry forward the legacy of the PDP, while also forging a path for a new generation of Kashmiri leaders.

This post first appeared on The Kashmir Pulse

PULWAMA — Waheed-ur-Rehman Para, People's Democratic Party (PDP) leader and candidate for the upcoming Assembly elections in the Pulwama constituency, drew thousands of supporters to a campaign rally in Arihal village on Thursday.

The event saw a lively display of support, with chants of encouragement and women singing traditional folk songs, showering Waheed Para with candies as a token of their affection.

In his address, Para positioned himself as the "lone voice" advocating for the real issues faced by the people of Pulwama. He pledged to highlight the plight of political prisoners, particularly the youth, and to address the rampant unemployment and other challenges hindering a better quality of life for the current generation.

“If elected as an MLA, I will continue to listen to the people's issues by visiting village after village," Para said, pointing to his commitment to remaining accessible and responsive to the public's concerns.

The overwhelming turnout and spirited atmosphere at the rally signalled significant local support for Para, as he vowed to prioritize speaking of the people's issues and needs in his campaign.

This post first appeared on The Kashmir Pulse

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.

This post first appeared on The Kashmir Pulse

PULWAMA — As the first phase of the Assembly elections in Jammu & Kashmir draws near, the Pulwama Assembly segment in southern Kashmir is set to witness a closely contested race. This seat is expected to see a tight battle between the National Conference's (NC) Mohammad Khalil Bhand, who has previously won this seat three times on a People's Democratic Party ticket, and Waheed-ur-Rehman Para, the youth leader of the PDP.

According to the news agency KNO, Bhand, a former minister in both PDP-led governments, secured the Pulwama seat in 2002, 2008, and 2014. However, he recently switched allegiance to the NC, and it remains to be seen how this move will affect his chances of winning.

Political analysts said that Bhand's work during his first tenure as Roads and Buildings (R&B) Minister in the 2002-2008 PDP-Congress government helped him maintain a stronghold on the seat. However, his performance from 2008-2014, when he was in opposition, and after 2014, was perceived as less effective, especially with several infrastructure projects left incomplete.

They said that during his third term as MLA, Khalil experienced internal conflicts within the PDP. Although initially given charge of the Agriculture Department, he was not appointed to a ministerial position, which led to disagreements, and he eventually shifted to the NC after the government collapsed.

The PDP has nominated Waheed Para, who garnered huge support in the Parliamentary elections for the Srinagar seat, with around 200,000 votes. Para received leads in both the Pulwama and Rajpora Assembly segments during those elections and is anticipated to provide a strong challenge to Bhand in the upcoming contest.

Notably, after delimitation, Para's native area, previously part of the Rajpora constituency, has now been included in the Pulwama constituency, while Litter Tehsil, where Bhand traditionally had a strong voter base, has moved to Rajpora.

Both Bhand and Para have been actively campaigning to attract voters, and political analysts suggest that Syed Bari Andrabi, the District Development Council (DDC) Chairperson of Pulwama who recently resigned from the PDP, could play a decisive role in the election. Andrabi's endorsement could influence around 1,000 to 2,000 votes and impact the election outcome.

Talat Majeed Wani, a former member of Jamaat-e-Islami who is contesting as an independent after being associated with the Apni Party, might also attract a substantial number of votes that could sway the results, analysts believe.

Historically, the Pulwama seat has seen various representatives, including Master Sanaullah Sheikh in 1962, Sonaullah Dar of Congress in 1967 and 1972, Mohammad Ibrahim Dar of NC in 1977 and 1983, and Bashir Ahmad Nengro of NC in 1987 and 1996. Since then, Khalil Bhand has held the seat for the PDP.

The Pulwama Assembly segment, AC 34, consists of 99,555 voters, including 49,423 males, 50,130 females, and 2 transgender individuals. To ensure a smooth electoral process, 112 polling stations have been designated for this constituency.

This post first appeared on The Kashmir Pulse

PULWAMA — People's Democratic Party (PDP) Youth President Waheed Ur Rehman Para on Friday visited the family of Abid Manzoor Dar in Barsoo Awantipora area of Pulwama district. Dar's body was recovered from the river Jhelum after being missing for three days.

Parra extended his deepest condolences to the bereaved family and assured them of his full support during this difficult time. "I share the grief of the bereaved family and pray to Almighty to give them the courage to bear the loss."

During his visit, Para emphasized the need for a fair investigation into the incident and requested the authorities to intervene to ensure that the investigation reaches a logical conclusion.

He appealed to the authorities to constitute a team to probe the mysterious death of Abid Manzoor Dar and uncover the circumstances leading to his untimely death.

Para called for the establishment of a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to ensure a fair and transparent probe. "The tragic loss of Abid Manzoor has left his family and the entire community in deep sorrow. It is important that we understand and know the truth behind his death. I urge the authorities to constitute a Special Investigation Team to investigate this matter comprehensively and bring justice to the grieving family," he emphasized.

He further added that the PDP stands with the family in their quest for justice and will continue to advocate for a thorough and unbiased investigation. He assured the family that all necessary support will be provided to them during this investigation.

Para urged the administration to initiate a prompt and impartial investigation so that the 'perpetrators' are brought to justice. "The culprits behind this heinous crime should be booked and given exemplary punishment," he asserted.

This post first appeared on The Kashmir Pulse

SRINAGAR — The political turf in Jammu and Kashmir is witnessing a surge of tension following the victory of Engineer Rashid in the Baramulla constituency. National Conference Vice President Omar Abdullah's remarks about the election outcome have sparked a heated debate, with People's Democratic Party (PDP) leader Waheed-Ur-Rehman Para strongly criticizing Abdullah's stance.

Omar Abdullah, as per the news agency KNO, expressed concern on Thursday that Engineer Rashid's triumph could strengthen separatist ideology and reinvigorate the Islamic movement in Kashmir.

"Rashid's victory will, without any doubt, empower the separatists and give a ray of hope to the defeated Islamic movement in Kashmir," Omar stated on Twitter. He linked this outcome to the broader political strategy of integrating separatists into mainstream politics, a move, as per him, that has historically backfired.

Engineer Rashid, also known as Abdul Rashid Sheikh, is currently incarcerated on militancy funding charges. Despite his imprisonment, he secured the Baramulla seat with a margin of over 200,000 votes, defeating prominent figures including Omar Abdullah and Sajjad Lone. Rashid garnered a total of 472,481 votes.

In response to Omar's comments, Waheed Para of the PDP voiced his disappointment, accusing Abdullah of refusing to accept the democratic mandate.

"I am extremely disappointed by Omar Abdullah's regressive stance, which is reminiscent of the divisive politics of 1987 and labelling democratic expression as 'Islamic wave'. His (Omar's) family's history with the Muslim Conference has been to oust PDP, Engineer Rashid, and JeI (Jamaat-e-Islami). Also, it has been increasing the conflict between Kashmir and the Centre," Para stated.

Para further argued that a more prudent approach, similar to Mehbooba Mufti's appeal for Rashid's release, would have been more appropriate.

Mehbooba Mufti, former Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir and PDP chief, congratulated Engineer Rashid and called for his release.

"Hearty congratulations to Mian Altaf, Agha Ruhullah, Engineer Rashid, and Hanifa Jaan for winning the Parliament elections. The Indian government should respect the people's decision and release Engineer Rashid," Mufti posted on X, formerly known as Twitter.

This post first appeared on The Kashmir Pulse