Srinagar: In a significant political development in Jammu and Kashmir, three regional parties have joined hands to form a new alliance named the People’s Alliance for Change.
The coalition brings together the Peoples Conference, led by MLA Sajjad Gani Lone; the Peoples Democratic Front (PDF), headed by former MLA Hakim Mohammad Yasin; and the newly established Justice & Development Front (JDF), composed of former members of the now-banned Jamaat-e-Islami.
The alliance was formally announced at a press conference in Srinagar, where JDF President Shamim Ahmad Thoker unveiled the group’s shared vision and objectives. Thoker emphasized the urgent need for political unity to address the challenges facing the region.
“We must come together to serve the people of Jammu and Kashmir. This is just the beginning,” Thoker said, adding that efforts are underway to invite other like-minded parties to join the initiative.
Declaration for Change: A New Political Blueprint
At the launch event, leaders of the three parties unveiled a founding charter titled the “Declaration for Change,” outlining the alliance’s ideological foundation and political agenda. Central to their mission is the restoration of Article 370 and Article 35A, along with the demand for full statehood for Jammu and Kashmir. The alliance pledged to pursue these goals through democratic and constitutional means.
The declaration also raised strong objections to the current reservation policy in the Union Territory, describing it as unfairly structured and detrimental to the interests of the Kashmiri people.
“All development must be rooted in dignity. Every citizen should have equal access to rights, resources, and opportunities—free from discrimination and humiliation,” the document stated.
Call for Reconciliation and Youth Empowerment
The alliance made a direct appeal for a comprehensive general amnesty for political detainees, youth, and others affected by the long-standing conflict in the region. Stressing the importance of healing and inclusion, the statement read:
“True reconciliation requires courage. We choose inclusion over exclusion.”
A core theme of the declaration was the need to transform Kashmir’s political discourse, moving away from fear-driven politics toward one based on purpose, honesty, and compassion.
The alliance also took a strong stance against what it called the “dual political narrative”—leaders who say one thing in Delhi and another in Kashmir for political gain.
“This double-speak has deprived Kashmiris, especially the youth, of political clarity and trust. It’s time for a single, transparent political language,” the document asserted.
Empowering Kashmir’s youth is another key pillar of the alliance’s agenda. The alliance vowed to create political space for young people, not just as voters, but as leaders and change-makers.
“The future of Kashmir cannot be shaped by those who keep shifting loyalties. Our youth deserve to be decision-makers and reformers—speaking the same truth in both Lal Chowk and Lutyens’ Delhi,” the declaration stated.
Vision for a ‘New Kashmir’
The People’s Alliance for Change envisions building a new political culture anchored in unity, accountability, development, and integrity.
“If Kashmir is to move forward, it must shed the politics of fear, confusion, and opportunism. What we need is one political voice, one roadmap, and one unwavering commitment to peace, progress, and people.”