Former NC MLA Kafil-ur-Rehman joins PDP

Rehman, a two-time legislator from the Karnah constituency in Kupwara district, was formally inducted into the PDP in the presence of party president Mehbooba Mufti and other senior leaders.

Welcoming Rehman into the party fold, Mehbooba Mufti highlighted his longstanding service to the people of Karnah and described his joining as a significant boost to the PDP's efforts to amplify grassroots voices and work towards a united, dignified and prosperous Jammu and Kashmir.

Kafil-ur-Rehman's political journey began with the National Conference, where he won the Karnah Assembly seat in the 2002 elections, marking the beginning of his first term as MLA. He was re-elected in 2008, defeating Ab Rehman Bhadana of the J&K Awami National Conference (JKANC), and went on to serve a second consecutive term.

Speaking on the occasion, Mehbooba Mufti said, “Kafil-ur-Rehman's decision to join the PDP reflects our shared commitment to empowering the people of Jammu and Kashmir. His experience as a two-time MLA and his dedication to public service will greatly strengthen our mission to tackle regional challenges and promote inclusive development. We are honoured to have him with us.”

Criticising the current administration, the former Chief Minister said, “The people elected this government with the hope of resolving their pressing issues, but the focus seems to be limited to bureaucratic matters like the transfer of patwaris and the appointment of BDOs.”

She further alleged that Jammu and Kashmir’s mineral wealth and environment were being exploited while many innocent people continued to languish in jails. “It has been almost six years since Jammu and Kashmir was bifurcated and stripped of its special status, but nothing has improved for the common people,” she said.

In his address, Kafil-ur-Rehman expressed gratitude for the warm welcome into the PDP and reiterated his commitment to public service. “I am deeply honoured to join the PDP. My focus remains on serving the people of Karnah, advocating for their rights, and contributing to the vision of a prosperous and united Jammu and Kashmir,” he said.

Karnah, located in the border district of Kupwara, faces unique developmental challenges due to its proximity to the Line of Control and its substantial Pahari population.