Nearly four months after the formation of the People’s Alliance for Change (PAC), the Justice and Development Front (JDF), a faction of the banned Jamaat-e-Islami, today announced its exit from the alliance, citing differences over the alliance’s functioning and decision-making process.
The decision by JDF comes as the by-polls for the Budgam seat are round the corner.
The PAC was formed in June this year after the Jammu and Kashmir People’s Conference (JKPC) led by Sajad Lone, Hakim Yasin’s People’s Democratic Front (PDF), and the JDF joined hands to provide what they described as a political “alternative” in the union Territory following the 2024 Assembly elections.
JDF General Secretary Sayar Ahmad Reshi said the party had decided to part ways with the PAC “with great mutual respect,” owing to “certain differences in the modus operandi of the alliance.”
“Within the alliance framework, JDF has always exercised its democratic right to express differing opinions. After due reflection, we believe that pursuing an independent course will better serve our vision, values, and principles,” Reshi said.
He expressed gratitude to the PAC partners and supporters, saying, “We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our former allies, well-wishers, and, above all, to the people who have continuously placed their trust and confidence in us.”
The JDF reaffirmed its “unwavering commitment to democratic values, transparency, accountability, and dedicated public service as we move forward independently.”
In 2024 elections, the Jamaat-backed JDF candidates failed to win any seat despite contesting 10 seats as Independents. The candidates forfeited their deposits even in its traditional strongholds barring Kulgam in South Kashmir.
