Former members of banned Jama’at extend support to ex Hurriyat leader Manzoor Kaloo in Sopore

Srinagar, Sep 23: The former members of banned Jama’at-e-Islami (JeI) have announced support to Haji Manzoor Ahmed Kaloo, an independent candidate and former Hurriyat leader, who is contesting the upcoming assembly election from Sopore.

Speaking with reporters, former Jama’at member Ghulam Qadir Wani, as per the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO) said that the organisation has historically distanced itself from elections due to instances of rigging in the past.

"The rigging that took place in the past drove many towards extremism. Now, Jama’at is determined to participate in and support democratic institutions to uphold trust in democracy," Wani said.

Wani clarified that Jama’at is determined to fight its battle democratically, pushing against the challenges it faces, including long-standing ban on the organisation.

However, he denied any broader electoral alliance beyond, stating that the alliance in south Kashmir remains separate.

Meanwhile, contesting candidate Manzoor Ahmed expressed gratitude to Jama’at for backing him and reiterated his commitment to challenge the ban on the organisation. "I have been with the Jama’at earlier. I am contesting elections to fight against the ban and work towards the release of those languishing in jails," he said.