Remember My Father’s Sacrifice, Restore Statehood: Imtiyaz Parray to BJP

By Gowhar Maqbool

Hajin, Sept 13: Apni Party leader Imtiyaz Parray on Saturday urged the BJP-led central government to restore Jammu and Kashmir’s statehood, calling it the “greatest tribute” to martyrs who laid down their lives for peace and the nation.

Addressing a gathering of party workers on the 22nd death anniversary of his father, late Mohammad Yousuf Parray alias Kuka Parray, Imtiyaz said that political decisions taken after his father’s sacrifice should not undermine the aspirations of the people.

“My father laid down his life for peace, development, and the nation. Even after his death, our family bore the brunt of public wrath for the choices he made. But let me be clear—he did not sacrifice his life for the bifurcation of J&K into two Union Territories, nor for the suppression of Kashmiris,” Imtiyaz said. “If the BJP truly honours the martyrs of the nation, the best tribute would be to restore statehood without further delay. My father is also among those martyrs.”

Paying tribute to Kuka Parray’s legacy, Imtiyaz pointed to the developmental works carried out by his father in Sonawari, which he said “still speak for themselves.”

Turning his attention to political rivals, the Apni Party leader accused opponents of indulging in name-calling rather than constructive debate. “After my father’s martyrdom, I chose politics. But my opponents have nothing to offer except slurs, branding me ‘Ikhwani.’ I have always walked a straight line. I respect the Constitution and this country, and I will continue to keep faith in it—unlike others who carry dual policies in their hearts,” he said.

Imtiyaz also cautioned those attempting to tarnish his image, asserting that he would “at the proper time” present evidence to expose false narratives. “Politics should be based on honesty and service to the people, not propaganda,” he said.

He called on his supporters to remain firm in the face of electoral propaganda, urging them not to be swayed by “baseless allegations” being spread in the run-up to elections.