Members of banned Jamaat-e-Islami launch new political party in J&K

Banned JeI members form new JDF party in J&K, focusing on justice, development, and grassroots issues for upcoming elections.

Several prominent members of the banned Jamaat-e-Islami (JeI) on Sunday (April 27, 2025) floated a new political party, Justice and Development Front (JDF), Jammu and Kashmir (J&K), and pledged to participate in all upcoming elections in J&K.

“The party’s founding principles are justice, development and public welfare. We intend to take an active role in addressing people’s issues. The party will fill the gap between governance and the grassroots, focusing on issues such as education, healthcare, youth employment, and community empowerment,” Sayar Reshi, a former member of the banned JeI, said.

Mr. Reshi, who will function as the party’s general secretary, contested the 2024 Assembly elections from Kulgam constituency.

The JDF, launched at an office in Nowgam, announced Shameem Ahmad Thokar as the party president. Abdul Rehman Shalla, who fought the 2024 assembly elections from Baramulla, has been appointed vice-chairman of the party.

“People supported us (during the elections). We decided to go back to the grassroots level and grow stronger. We will participate in all upcoming elections. People had a sense that their real representatives are not on the ground. We joined the political arena to fill the void,” Mr. Reshi said.

Condemning the Pahalgam attack, Mr. Thokar said, “No words are enough to condemn the dastardly attack. However, I appeal to the Government of India and the Lieutenant Governor to stop the process of blasting and destruction of houses. It has frightened the families living there.”

The JDF leaders highlighted that the newly-floated party will work towards a future that ensures social justice, economic progress, and protection of fundamental rights for all citizens. “The JDF is the launch of a new hope for the people of J&K,” they said.