 Sandeep Bhat
Early Times Report
Jammu, July 4: In a major development with far-reaching political implications, Ghulam Qadir Wani, a senior leader of the banned Jamaat-e-Islami (JeI), has publicly expressed faith in the Indian Constitution and reaffirmed his group's commitment to peace, democracy, and the rule of law.
Speaking to reporters during a political event, Wani said, “We believe in peace and democracy. We will work within the legal framework and abide by the Constitution of India.” His remarks signal a noteworthy shift in tone from a group that has historically been under scrutiny for its alleged links to separatist activities.
Wani clarified that the Justice and Democratic Front (JDF)—a political outfit recently floated by former JeI members—was formed specifically to participate in the democratic process and give voice to the aspirations of the people withi Ghulam Qadir Wani, a senior leader of the banned Jamaat-e-Islami (JeI), has reaffirmed his group's commitment to peace, democracy, and the rule of law.
We believe in peace and democracy. We will work within the legal framework and abide by the Constitution of India.
His remarks signal a noteworthy shift in tone from a group that has historically been under scrutiny for its links to separatist activities.
We have participated in the Assembly elections and have encouraged the people to take part in the democratic process.
“We have participated in the Assembly elections and have encouraged the people to take part in the democratic process,” he said, further asserting, “We belong to the mainstream now. Our aim is to contribute constructively to society and governance through legal and democratic means.”
The statement comes at a time when the Union Government has intensified its outreach in Jammu and Kashmir to integrate marginalised and previously controversial political entities into the democratic fold. Wani’s declaration is being viewed by political observers as an attempt by the former JeI leadership to reposition itself in the evolving political landscape of Jammu and Kashmir.
This development also adds momentum to the ongoing debate around political rehabilitation, de-radicalisation, and broader inclusion in the post-Article 370 Jammu and Kashmir framework. | 