Bandipora, July 24: Former actress, model, and social media influencer Mateena Jeelani is set to formally join the Jammu and Kashmir Apni Party on Saturday during a function at the party headquarters in Srinagar.
Mateena Jeelani, a resident of Rajpora Rajwar village in Handwara area of north Kashmir’s Kupwara district, confirmed the development to Kashmir News Trust.
She said the joining ceremony is scheduled to take place in Srinagar tomorrow in the presence of Apni Party President Syed Mohammad Altaf Bukhari.
Explaining her decision to enter active politics, Mateena said the people of Handwara have remained neglected for years and deserve better development and opportunities.
“I feel that the people of Handwara have been ignored by previous political parties, and our area has not witnessed the kind of development people expected. I believe it is time for the youth to step forward and play an active role in shaping the future. That is why I have decided to come forward for change,” she told KNT.
She said she had spent considerable time studying the ideology and functioning of different political parties before making her decision.
“I carefully studied various political parties and their approach. I felt that the Apni Party was the right choice because it encourages young people and provides them with opportunities to contribute. I was impressed by the leadership of Syed Mohammad Altaf Bukhari and believe the party is genuinely committed to working for the welfare of the people at the grassroots level. That inspired me to join the Jammu and Kashmir Apni Party,” she said.
Mateena Jeelani said her decision is driven by a desire to contribute towards positive change and encourage greater youth participation in public life.
“I want to work for change and motivate more young people to come forward for the betterment of society,” she added. [KNT]
