Centre provides ‘Z+’ CRPF security cover to J-K’s Apni Party president Altaf Bukhari

According to top government sources, the Government has supplied former People’s Democratic Party leader and Jammu and Kashmir Apni Party president Syed Mohammad Altaf Bukhari with armed Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) security cover. The Ministry of Home Affairs granted the security following a recent security review meeting based on an Intelligence Bureau danger analysis. Altaf Bukhari (65), a businessman-turned-politician and former minister, will be given ‘Z+’ category protection around the clock in Jammu and Kashmir, according to reports.

Bukhari founded the J&K Apni Party (JKAP) as an alternative to regional parties such as the National Conference (NC) and the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), both of which he previously belonged to.

The Apni Party, comprised primarily of parliamentarians and former ministers, was created in March 2020, eight months after Articles 370 and 35A were repealed. Since then, approximately two dozen legislators from various political parties have joined it. In March 2020, all senior leaders of the party met with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah to insist that the J&K people’s land rights and jobs be protected.

Bukhari later stated that Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Shah were pleased with the party’s efforts. The Apni Party has been hosting a number of rallies to make an impression on voters, particularly in Kashmir.

It also conducted a huge rally in Srinagar last year, which was regarded as one of the Valley’s largest since August 5, 2019. Although openly criticizing the government for its anti-encroachment drive, Bukhari has stated that he is willing to ally with the BJP.