SRINAGAR: Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) president Mehbooba Mufti on Wednesday emphasised the urgent need for reconciliation between India and Pakistan, stating that such a step is vital to end hostility and prevent incidents like the recent Gagangir terror attack.
Speaking to reporters after visiting the family of the slain doctor in Budgam, who tragically lost his life in the Gagangir attack, Mufti conveyed her condolences and expressed deep concern over the recurring violence in Jammu and Kashmir. The PDP leader reiterated that the ongoing conflict between India and Pakistan has disproportionately affected the people of the region.
“Gagangir-like incidents will continue unless there is reconciliation between the two nations,” Mufti warned. She invoked the diplomatic outreach witnessed during former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee’s tenure, when significant steps were taken to bridge the divide between India and Pakistan.
Highlighting the widespread public desire for peace, she added, “It’s not just me, but all the people of Jammu and Kashmir want an end to this enmity.”
The Gagangir attack, which occurred last week, saw militants open fire at a civilian housing settlement near the Gagangir area in Ganderbal district, resulting in the death of seven persons including a doctor. They were construction workers implementing a strategic road tunnel project.
Mufti called for dialogue and confidence-building measures, urging both nations to revive the peace initiatives that had briefly flourished in the past. She concluded by stressing that only through reconciliation could lasting peace be achieved, sparing the people of Jammu and Kashmir further suffering.
