Kath Ba’ath – A Platform Where People Speak and Politicians Listen

Mohd Rafique Rather

Kath Ba’ath, the public interaction initiative of the Peoples Democratic Party, has emerged as a notable political outreach effort in Jammu and Kashmir. Conceived as an open forum for dialogue, the programme has drawn wide participation across social and professional sections. The interactions held in Srinagar and later at the Jammu Club on December 21 reflected a strong public response, with significant participation from young men and women.

Presided over by PDP president and former Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti, the programme was structured to ensure minimal internal party presence. This approach reinforced its inclusive and non partisan character. Unlike routine political gatherings, Kath Ba’ath created space for direct engagement between political leadership and citizens without ideological or organisational barriers.

At a time when public trust in conventional political processes has weakened, the initiative offered an alternative format based on listening and dialogue. Participants from diverse backgrounds took part, including students, teachers, lawyers, entrepreneurs, traders, professionals, intellectuals, religious representatives, and social groups. The breadth of participation gave the forum the character of a public dialogue rather than a party driven exercise.

Several key issues dominated the discussions. Young participants spoke about unemployment, limited opportunities, and uncertainty about the future. Academics raised concerns over shrinking academic autonomy and restrictions on free expression. Members of the business sector flagged economic slowdown, policy inconsistency, and declining confidence. Legal voices focused on accountability, rule of law, and democratic rights. The candid nature of these discussions strengthened the credibility of the platform.

A visible outcome has been renewed political engagement among sections of the youth who had distanced themselves from mainstream politics. Many now view the PDP as a platform that allows dissent, clarity, and debate. This shift carries weight in a region marked by growing political disengagement among younger citizens.

Kath Ba’ath has also reiterated the party’s clear position on the special political status of Jammu and Kashmir and the protection of local rights. These issues remain central to public discourse and were addressed directly during the interactions. Participants responded positively to this clarity.

The forum also saw citizens raising questions on governance under the National Conference led dispensation. Issues such as unemployment, administrative delays, and the gap between promises and delivery were raised without prompting. These citizen led critiques echoed broader dissatisfaction and reinforced the PDP narrative through public voices rather than partisan argument.

Mehbooba Mufti faced pointed questions during the interactions and responded with openness and accountability. She acknowledged past political failures and stressed the need for correction and introspection. She called on the youth to play a role in shaping a peaceful and dignified future, underlining the importance of collective responsibility.

The perception of a PDP revival has gained traction following the Budgam electoral victory, which boosted worker morale and organisational confidence. The leadership has since intensified outreach efforts and engagement with different sections.

Kath Ba’ath reflects a strategic emphasis on direct public engagement. Senior leaders have focused on listening, feedback, and grassroots presence. At the same time, the party has sought to position itself as an alternative by highlighting governance gaps under the current regime.

Kath Ba’ath has moved beyond a routine outreach exercise. Its relevance lies in the seriousness of dialogue and diversity of participation it has generated. By allowing citizens to speak freely and leadership to listen, the initiative has positioned the Peoples Democratic Party as a political force seeking renewal through engagement and clarity.

The author is a trade union leader turned politician, writer, and television debater. He can be reached at mrafiqr65@gmail.com