SRINAGAR: Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) president and former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti on Monday accused the National Conference (NC) leadership of compromising the region’s political interests and questioned the continued suspicion surrounding the people of Jammu and Kashmir.
Addressing a large gathering at the PDP’s Foundation Day workers’ convention in Srinagar, Mehbooba alleged that the NC had failed to safeguard Jammu and Kashmir’s political identity and aspirations, particularly its demand for autonomy.
She said the party had abandoned the autonomy agenda when the position of Prime Minister of Jammu and Kashmir was replaced by that of Chief Minister, accusing its leadership of compromising on issues central to the region’s political identity.
Questioning the NC’s political positions, particularly its statements concerning Pakistan, Mehbooba alleged that contradictory political approaches had contributed to uncertainty and mistrust, with ordinary people bearing the consequences.
She also raised concerns over what she described as persistent suspicion against Kashmiris, questioning the alleged harassment of young people, removal of Kashmiri officers from government service and targeting of tribal communities.
“Why is there so much suspicion against us? Why are our youth being beaten, why are Kashmiri officers being removed from their jobs, and why are tribal communities being targeted? We need to think why India continues to look at Kashmiris with such suspicion,” she said.
Referring to Jammu and Kashmir’s accession to India, Mehbooba recalled the roles of Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah, Mahatma Gandhi and Jawaharlal Nehru, questioning why people in the region were still being asked to demonstrate their loyalty despite the historical circumstances surrounding the accession.
She maintained that the decision was taken in view of India’s democratic and secular credentials and rejected the repeated questioning of Kashmiris’ allegiance.
Recalling former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee’s approach towards Jammu and Kashmir, she said he had pursued peace and reconciliation and taken initiatives to improve connectivity, including the Mughal Road.
Mehbooba urged the Government of India to initiate meaningful dialogue with the people of Jammu and Kashmir, arguing that lasting peace could not be achieved through force and restrictions.
“How long will you keep Kashmir closed and try to maintain peace through the use of force? You cannot continue to rule people with a stick. You have to listen to their voices,” she said.
Reiterating the PDP’s political position, Mehbooba said the party had been established to restore dignity and respect to Jammu and Kashmir and would continue to raise issues concerning the people’s political rights and aspirations.
“The PDP was formed to give Jammu and Kashmir dignity and respect. We have one agenda, and we will continue to stand for the interests of our people,” she said.
