‘My father’s decision set in stone but BJP has to hold up deal’

SRINAGAR: The decision taken by former chief minister Mufti Syed in aligning with the BJP is final, but the government formation would be possible only after “tangible action on implementation” of the agenda of alliance, PDP chief Mehbooba Mufti said on Monday.

Addressing a gathering of party workers in the border district of Kupwara in north Kashmir, Mehbooba’s remarks are the strongest indication yet that she will continue with her alliance with the BJP, a decision of her father’s that was akin to ‘Patther ki lakeer’ (set in stone). But the agenda of alliance and its implementation is also important, the PDP leader said. “Some initiatives need to be taken with regard to the agenda of alliance that was formed. When there is positive initiative towards that, then I will move ahead with Mufti sahib’s wish”, she said. She said that the PDP had made a “bold and decisive political move in by forming a coalition government with BJP in the larger interest of J&K’s peace and stability”.

“PDP will always honour his (Mufti’s) decision … but it is the turn of Government of India to reciprocate its sincerity, towards his vision of peace and prosperity of the state, by taking tangible action on ground,” she said.

She added: “I am sure if the measures spelled out in the Agenda of Alliance are implemented with sincerity of purpose, it will go a long way in not only addressing the trust-deficit between New Delhi and J&K but would also lay strong foundations for sustainable peace and prosperity in the State and the region.” Mehbooba said she respects her father’s decisions which have always been for the benefit of the state’ s people, adding that she would “sit on the chair” only if she feels she will “fulfil the dreams of Sayeed for the people of Jammu and Kashmir”.

PDP will always honour his (Mufti’s) decision … but it is the turn of Government of India to reciprocate its sincerity towards his (Mufti Sayeed’s) vision

MEHBOOBA MUFTI, PDP chief