SRINAGAR, Oct 20: Former Jammu and Kashmir Apni Party leader Muntazir Mohiuddin, who recently stepped down from the party to contest the upcoming Budgam Assembly by-election as an independent candidate, said on Monday that his decision stemmed from local circumstances rather than any disagreement with his former political outfit.
Speaking to reporters after filing his nomination papers, Mohiuddin described the Apni Party as a credible political platform with a strong and inclusive manifesto that, according to him, genuinely reflects the aspirations of the people of Jammu and Kashmir.
“I have no grievances against the Apni Party. I don’t make false statements—it’s a fact that the Apni Party truly represents the people of Jammu and Kashmir. But the situation in Budgam is unique,” Mohiuddin said.
Elaborating on his decision to contest independently, he said the move came after repeated appeals from his supporters who wanted him to represent them under his own symbol. “My supporters and well-wishers urged me to fight as an independent candidate. The Apni Party will not be affected by my departure, but I have my own base, my own vote, and public support,” he added.
Commenting on the current political landscape in the Budgam constituency, Mohiuddin asserted that the National Conference (NC) has “lost its ground” in the area and that the upcoming by-election would mark a shift toward independent, people-driven representation.
“The NC no longer enjoys strong support in Budgam. People are seeking a change, and I believe they will rally behind an independent voice that truly represents their concerns,” he said.
