Separatist Leader Salim Geelani Joins PDP

Syed Salim Geelani, a former separatist leader and member of the Hurriyat Conference, joined the People's Democratic Party (PDP) led by Mehbooba Mufti, expressing that the PDP's ideology aligns closely with his beliefs regarding the Kashmir issue. He emphasized that violence is not a viable solution to the conflict, advocating for a political resolution instead. Although the PDP offered him a ticket to contest the upcoming Assembly elections from the Khanyar constituency, Geelani declined, stating a desire to give others the opportunity. His transition marks a notable shift as several separatist figures, including former members of the banned Jamaat-e-Islami, are entering electoral politics for the first time since 1987. Geelani praised the late Mufti Muhammad Sayeed's vision for Kashmir and committed to advancing the PDP's agenda focused on human and political rights. This political shift highlights a changing landscape in Jammu and Kashmir as elections approach.