PDP’s Naeem Akhtar Accuses National Conference of Targeting Waheed Parra, Warns of ‘Jail Tactics’
Srinagar, April 5, KNT: Peoples Democratic Party leader Naeem Akhtar on Sunday accused the National Conference of attempting to politically target party legislator Waheed ur Rehman Parra, alleging that the party follows a pattern of acting against those who question its functioning.
Akhtar said the National Conference would try to “demonize” Parra and push him “to the brink,” including the possibility of sending him back to jail. He claimed that such an approach reflects a broader political strategy.
The remarks come amid an ongoing exchange between political leaders in Jammu and Kashmir, with Akhtar drawing a comparison between the National Conference and the Bharatiya Janata Party, alleging that both suppress dissent and act against critics.
What Sakina Itoo Said in Assembly
During a heated exchange in the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly, minister Sakina Itoo accused PDP legislator Waheed ur Rehman Parra and his party of being responsible for the current political situation in the Union Territory.
“If we are without power and grappling with challenges today, it is because of PDP. If we are without statehood, it is due to you,” she said, linking present governance issues to the party’s past decisions.
She also criticized the opposition’s conduct in the House, stating that her government believes in “action, not drama,” in an apparent reference to protest tactics.
In the exchange, Itoo further questioned Parra’s actions and alleged influences behind him, saying, “We know who is pulling your strings,” amid disruptions in the Assembly. She even accused him of having links with militants.
The remarks were part of a broader verbal confrontation between treasury and opposition benches that led to repeated interruptions in proceedings.
He said that parties in power often use pressure tactics against opposition voices, and claimed that the National Conference was “bankrupt” and lacking ethical standards in its political conduct.
Akhtar also criticized Jammu and Kashmir minister Sakina Itoo over her remarks directed at Parra, saying that a minister handling key portfolios such as education and health should maintain restraint in public discourse.
He alleged that the language used against Parra was inappropriate and did not reflect the responsibility expected from a senior public office holder.
Describing Parra as a prominent young political figure, Akhtar said targeting him politically would send the wrong message about democratic engagement in the region. [KNT]
