PDP Calls for Revocation of Ban on Jamaat-e-Islami, Asserts Article 370 Crucial for J&K Resolution

The People's Democratic Party (PDP) advocates for lifting the ban on Jamaat-e-Islami, citing their contributions to education and disaster relief. PDP chief Mufti emphasizes that restoring Article 370 is essential for resolving the Jammu and Kashmir issue. The party plans to contest the Assembly elections independently.

The People's Democratic Party (PDP) on Sunday expressed support for Jamaat-e-Islami's (JeI) participation in the upcoming Jammu and Kashmir Assembly elections, calling it a positive step. However, PDP also urged the government to revoke the existing ban on JeI.

"It is a good thing. I want the Government of India to revoke the ban on JeI because if you are not banning communal organisations which are spreading venom in this country, I do not want to name them, those who take out rallies, pelt stones on mosques, lynch Muslims, then why is there a ban on JeI which has contributed a lot in the education sector, helped people in floods of 2014 and COVID?" PDP Chief Mufti stated to reporters.

Media reports suggest that former JeI leaders are considering contesting the Assembly polls independently. Mufti announced that her party would also contest the elections alone, highlighting that they have almost finalized their candidates. She reiterated that the abrogation of Article 370 has complicated the Jammu and Kashmir issue and emphasized the need for its restoration for any resolution.

(With inputs from agencies.)