Kulgam, Jan 3: Sakina Itoo, Senior National Conference leader and former Cabinet Minister in an interview with Asia News Observer’s Tawseef Bhat said, that the newly established political parties were introduced into Kashmir through means other than organic growth, whereas she asserted that the National Conference (NC) remains the sole party capable of alleviating the people’s suffering.
She revealed that family, relatives, and public pressure were the driving forces that pushed her into politics instead of pursuing MBBS.
Excerpts:
ANO: It was your aspiration and your father’s wish for you to become a doctor. How did your journey from pursuing medicine to joining politics unfold?
Sakina Itoo: Initially, I was on the path of pursuing medicine and was studying MBBS at GMC Bopal. However, due to the escalated militancy resulting in my father’s tragic death, circumstances compelled me to reconsider. Despite my father’s dream for me to become a doctor, family and societal pressures led me to step into politics just before the 1996 elections.
ANO: In 2018 or earlier, being the lone woman in the assembly, what were your thoughts?
Sakina Itoo: I received substantial support from colleagues. Initially, I hadn’t aimed to become a cabinet minister as I was still learning about politics. However, in 1996, Farooq sb appointed me as deputy minister of education, guiding me throughout. Later in 2008, under Omar Abdullah’s leadership, I became a cabinet minister, earning due respect as a female member.
ANO: What are your views on women’s empowerment and the proposed 33% reservation for women in parliament and assemblies?
Sakina Itoo: The proposed 33% reservation for women is a commendable step that should be implemented promptly. Those criticizing female politicians need to introspect. Empowering women in politics is essential, and this reservation can significantly contribute to it.
ANO: With the emergence of new political parties, how does NC, an established regional party, perceive this change?
Sakina Itoo: These new parties parachuted into existence are not organically grown but were fabricated elsewhere. The people of Kashmir have consistently rejected them, evident even in the DDC and Panchayat elections. The National Conference remains the only widely accepted party here, trusted by the people to alleviate their struggles.
ANO: A message to the people of Damhal Hanjipora?
Sakina Itoo: I urge the people of Damhal Hanjipora to choose a candidate who can genuinely support them, ensuring a secure environment even for women. I trust the maturity of the people of Noorabad to make the right decision when given the opportunity.
