Jammu, Sep 8: The SOS International, the frontline Pakistan-occupied-Jammu Kashmir (PoJK) refugee organization, on Sunday came down heavily on all political parties for neglecting their legitimate demands in their manifestoes and warned that the community’s votes will be crucial in determining the outcome of the forthcoming Assembly elections in the Union Territory.

The organisation, under the leadership of its chairman Rajiv Chuni, at a meeting in Nowshera deliberated on their role in the upcoming Assembly elections.

The meeting, as per the communiqué, in one voice, criticized all political parties for making no mention of PoJK refugees in their election manifestos and warned against taking the community for granted.

Addressing the meeting, Chuni said, “Elections are being held in Jammu and Kashmir after a gap of 10 years. The new government will have the authority to determine the allocation of resources and benefits among different communities, while the central government’s role will also continue.”

“Upon reviewing the manifestos of various political parties, it is evident that PoJK displaced persons, a community of 12 lakh people with 6.5 lakh voters, are barely mentioned. Only one or two parties have made passing references, which is a grave injustice to this community. No concrete promises have been made to PoJK displaced persons, who have consistently been overlooked in every election,” the senior refugee leader said and noted that “We are currently assessing each party’s manifesto and will formulate a unified response for the elections.”

Chuni claimed that there are 28 out of total 90 assembly seats in Jammu and Kashmir, where their community has a dominant presence and could significantly influence the outcome of elections.

“Despite our significant presence, we are being overlooked, which is both unjust and discriminatory. Our influence will be particularly decisive in the second phase of elections, including in Poonch, Rajouri and Reasi districts,” he said.

The refugee leader said they will assess the commitments of each political party, individual candidate and take appropriate action accordingly.

“We will communicate our collective decision to all community voters through social media platforms, such as WhatsApp Broadcast groups, phone calls before commencement of the second phase of elections on September 25, to ensure a unified and impactful effort in this election,” he said.

He expressed dismay over the approach of all political parties toward addressing their legitimate demands, saying they have been neglecting the community because its members were not united.

“Our unity will exert pressure on political parties, demonstrating that our community can influence the outcome of elections,” he said and announced that the next community meeting is scheduled for September 15 at Dhanwan, near Kali Daab Bridge, on Nowshera-Rajouri highway.

He urged members to attend in large numbers to reinforce their united stance and continue their struggle for recognition.

UNI