Those involved in Roshni racket must not be spared: Altaf Bukhari

After the Central Bureau of Investigation booked former minister Taj Mohiuddin in connection with Roshni Scam, Jammu and Kashmir Apni Party (JKAP) president Syed Altaf Bukhari on Friday said that those involved in the racket must not be spared.

A day after being elected as Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC) Mayor for the second time, Junaid Azim Mattu formally joined JKAP at the party’s head office in Lal Chowk area of Srinagar.

Mattu was welcomed in the party fold by its president and former minister Syed Altaf Bukhari during which former minister Ashraf Mir and party leader Noor Muhammad were also present.

Meanwhile, Bukhari while addressing media persons on the sidelines of Mattu, said that whosoever has encroached the land illegally under the Roshni scam should be exposed. “Strict action should be taken against those involved in the scam,” he said, as per KNO

Replying to a query about action against former minister in connection with Roshni Scam, he said anyone who has availed the benefits through proper procedures must not be harassed, adding that “we will not act as mute spectators, if anyone who has followed the procedure, will be harassed.”

Asked about restrictions on political party leaders, he said that the essence of democracy is freedom and everybody has a right to move freely. “Everybody has a right to move freely. Our candidates were also not allowed certain times, but that is due to the security scenario,” he said.

About elections slated to be held from Saturday, Bukhari said that out of 24 constituencies from Kashmir, JKAP is contesting directly from 16 constituencies while the party is supporting eight candidates also in other constituencies. He added that in Jammu province, 18 constituencies are going for polls tomorrow and the party has fielded 12 candidates and is also supporting one independent candidate.

He said that people are presently joining JKAP as it is a new party and they want to know them. “We are not traditional politicians and we are telling the truth to the people. Core issues are the August 05 decision, but the case is already subjudice and I pray that the top court gives its verdict that will suit the aspirations of people.”

About land law, he said that the party will try its level best to ensure that the land of J&K is reserved from its people only. “There is no objection if industries are coming up here, but they should not be given rights of domicile. We will keep raising this issue with the Prime Minister and Home Minister as issues can only be resolved by them,” he said.

Welcoming Mattu, Bukhari said the Mayor would get all possible support from the party cadres and functionaries in serving the people of Srinagar City. He stated that Mattu has worked tirelessly during the pandemic and it is hoped that he would continue work for the people with zeal.

Bukhari said that Srinagar will be developed as one of best cities throughout the world and “I assure the people of Srinagar residents that Mattu will come up to their expectations.”

He further stated that his priority will be to control the pandemic and “I assure you that he will work like he has worked in the past.” “Our (JKAP) stakes in Srinagar are huge and we will work together to ensure that Srinagar is developed as one of the best cities throughout the world.” Bukhari further stated that the Apni Party’s will always be on equitable development of the entire Jammu and Kashmir especially the twin cities of Srinagar and Jammu.

“I hope that Junaid Mattu will first focus on counter measures to stem the spread of COVID-19 and would start a new era of holistic development of all wards and constituencies of Srinagar City especially focusing on restoration of pristine glory of Shehr-e-Khas,” Bukhari said.

He said that Apni Party will have a zero tolerance for corruption and would ensure that there is no discrimination in development of wards and constituencies in Srinagar.

He said that he was happy at Mattu’s joining the Apni Party and could see a bright future for him in the political field. He said that many other corporators would be joining the Party in coming days for which a grand ceremony would be organized.

Thanking Apni Party leadership for the faith and confidence reposed in him Mattu said that his joining was motivated by certain eye-opening realizations including gimmickry adopted by the traditional political parties in the region.

Mattu after joining the party stated that he has joined JKAP as this is the party, which believes in politics of delivery

“Altaf Bukhari is not only a humble human being but a visionary leader who believes in action rather than in words. I could see Apni Party is a dependable political platform that believes in pragmatic approach and delivery on the ground,” said Mattu.

He said the unrealistic and marketing-gimmicks of so called tall political leaders need to be countered with the truth. “The pragmatic approach of the Apni Party is what convinced me to work under the leadership of Altaf Bukhari sahib. His brilliant performance as a minister in the previous elected government was acknowledged by one and all including his political opponents in the legislative assembly,” he said.

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