PDP appoints Para leader of legislative party, Naik deputy

The People’s Democratic Party (PDP) on Thursday said it held a meeting at its headquarters in Srinagar, with party president Mehbooba Mufti leading discussions on issues that “matter deeply to the people” of Jammu and Kashmir.

During the meeting, MLA from Pulwama, Waheed ur Rehman Para, was selected as the Leader of the Legislative Party. The party said the role reflects his strong connection with the people and his steadfast dedication to their welfare.

Rafiq Ahmed Naik was appointed deputy leader, while Kupwara MLA Mir Mohammad Fayaz would serve as the Chief Whip, ensuring unity and direction within the party’s legislative team, the spokesperson said.

Mehboob Beg was appointed as the chief spokesperson of the PDP. “With a distinguished background as a parliamentarian and legislator, Dr Beg brings invaluable expertise and a deep understanding of the unique challenges faced by Jammu and Kashmir,” the party said, adding that his extensive experience and dedication to public service would be instrumental in conveying the PDP’s vision and commitment to the region’s people.

A party spokesperson, in a statement, said many senior leaders, including Ab Rehman Veeri, Mohd Sartaj Madni, Ghulam Nabi Lone Hanjura, Asiya Naqash, Haq Khan, Basharat Bukhari and Mohd Khurshid Alam, attended the meeting. The leaders shared insights and make decisions aimed at strengthening the party’s role in advocating for the region’s needs, the spokesperson said.

According to the party, the PDP leaders also took a moment to appreciate the efforts of their legislators during the recent Assembly session, where they voiced public concerns within the house. “This proactive approach is deeply rooted in the vision of PDP founder late Mufti Mohammad Sayeed, who believed in speaking up for the people’s aspirations and maintaining a direct connection with the issues that affect them the most,” the spokesperson said.

During the meeting, a major focus of the meeting was the hardships facing the youth of Jammu and Kashmir. The party said with unemployment levels soaring and reservation policies affecting countless young lives, the PDP leadership expressed their concern for the struggles young people were enduring.

“PDP chief Mehbooba Mufti reiterated the PDP’s mission to stand with the people of Jammu and Kashmir, particularly the youth, in their journey toward justice, dignity, and hope for a better tomorrow,” the spokesperson said.