Srinagar, Oct 27: I have the utmost respect for Waheed Para Sahib, but I strongly disagree with the content of his speech.

Let me share my own experience. In 2019, I consciously chose a more challenging path to become the deputy mayor. Despite having the option to secure the position with the BJP’s support, which would have been easier, I made the decision to distance myself and work on building support within the Grand Alliance, consisting of the PDP, NC, and Congress – a genuine people’s coalition as I envisioned it to be.

I take pride in being the first person to assume the position within the Grand Alliance at its inception, which is known as the People’s Alliance.

While I could claim credit for being a founding and conceptual member of the People’s Alliance and the first to hold the chair, I prefer not to.

The most significant disagreement lies in the fact that their (Pdp’s) campaign and speeches in 2019 promised to keep the BJP away.