Srinagar, Jul 25: Former actress Mateena Jeelani on Saturday formally joined the Jammu and Kashmir Apni Party at the party headquarters in Srinagar, marking her entry into active politics with a pledge to work for youth empowerment and grassroots development.
Jeelani, as per Alfaaz – The Words, was welcomed into the party by Apni Party President Syed Mohammad Altaf Bukhari and senior party leaders. Her induction is being viewed as part of the party’s efforts to broaden its outreach among young people and encourage greater youth participation in the political process.
Speaking after joining the party, Jeelani said she was inspired by Altaf Bukhari’s vision for Jammu and Kashmir and decided to enter public life to contribute towards the region’s development.
“I have long felt the need to raise my voice for neglected areas, particularly my hometown of Handwara. Altaf Bukhari’s work and his vision for Jammu and Kashmir motivated me to step into politics and serve the people,” she said.
Highlighting developmental concerns in the Rajwar-Handwara area, Jeelani said several villages continue to face deficiencies in basic infrastructure. She pointed to inadequate road connectivity, erratic electricity supply and limited access to safe drinking water, saying these long-pending issues require sustained attention and effective governance.
Expressing her commitment to public service, she said she intends to work sincerely for the welfare of the people and focus on addressing grassroots issues. “I am new to politics, but I am determined to learn, serve with honesty and work for improving the living conditions of people in my village and across Handwara,” she said.
Jeelani also stressed the importance of greater youth participation in politics, saying many young people remain uncertain about their future and that their active involvement in the democratic process can help bring meaningful and positive change.
Welcoming her into the party, Apni Party leaders expressed confidence that Jeelani’s induction would strengthen the party’s engagement with the younger generation, particularly in north Kashmir, while reinforcing its commitment to development-oriented and people-centric politics.
