SRINAGAR: Following last month’s terror attack targeting tourists, former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister and PDP President Mehbooba Mufti visited Pahalgam today. During her visit, she met individuals who risked their lives to protect and assist tourists during the incident. She also interacted with tourists currently in Pahalgam, reassuring them of the region’s resilience and hospitality.
Speaking to media on the sidelines, Mufti said the Pahalgam attack, which left the region in mourning, was condemnable and warranted the strongest punishment for those responsible. “The people of Kashmir unanimously condemned this attack. However, the manner in which civilians—particularly shawl vendors, poniwalas, tea sellers, and others from Pahalgam trying to earn a livelihood—are being detained or questioned is deeply disturbing,” she said.
She said that civilians are being taken into custody by security agencies for hours, sometimes the entire day, without food, only to be asked to return again for further questioning, without any clear accusation. Mufti said such blanket criminalisation of locals fosters resentment and mistrust.
Mufti added, “Even more disturbing are reports that some civilians who voluntarily appeared for questioning to assist the investigation were labelled as OGWs. These were poor men with no political or militant affiliations, simply trying to cooperate in good faith. A full and transparent probe must be conducted without delay. The government must also extend immediate financial assistance to their families, who are struggling in poverty.”
In view of the upcoming Amarnath Yatra, she urged Union Home Minister Amit Shah to provide financial assistance to poniwalas, who play a crucial role in facilitating the pilgrimage. She also called for waiving interest on loans taken by hoteliers, taxi operators, and other tourism-dependent workers for the current financial year. “Their livelihoods have already suffered due to instability and the ongoing crackdown. These sectors form the backbone of Pahalgam’s economy and have been under stress due to repeated disruptions,” she said.
Mufti urged the government to act with fairness and compassion rather than fear and suspicion, pointing out that Kashmiris have unanimously condemned the Pahalgam attack. “Collective punishment of innocent civilians is not how a democratic society responds to tragedy. Accountability and security are important, but we must also uphold the dignity of civilians,” she added.
