Former J&K Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti Declares Post-2019 Kashmir Policy Failed Following Delhi Blast

Srinagar:

People's Democratic Party chief and former Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti has declared that the Central government's approach to Jammu and Kashmir following Article 370's revocation has been unsuccessful. She urged New Delhi to initiate reconciliation efforts that would enable residents to live with self-respect and dignity.

During a youth engagement event organized by her party in Srinagar, Mufti explained that the recent explosion in Delhi motivated her to establish dialogue with young people. She announced plans to conduct similar interactive sessions throughout the Kashmir Valley.

Referring to the explosion near Delhi's Red Fort last month, the former J&K Chief Minister expressed her distress upon learning that a physician had detonated himself, resulting in civilian casualties. She implored her audience to ensure Kashmiri youth never resort to such extremes.

"A well-educated young individual became a suicide bomber. This is deeply troubling. We seek to prevent such occurrences. We desire peace in Jammu and Kashmir and across the nation, which can only be achieved through reconciliation and dialogue," she stated.

"We wish to live with dignity within this country. Delhi must recognize that continued suppression and constriction of Jammu and Kashmir's people cannot persist," she emphasized.

"The strategy implemented after 2019 has proven ineffective. The Prime Minister, Home Minister, and National Security Advisor must acknowledge this reality," she further remarked.

Mufti insisted that the government should engage in serious reflection when "a doctor takes his own life through an explosion, killing himself and innocent bystanders. I believe the government should reevaluate its approach and reinitiate reconciliation processes."

She called upon the Central government to address the concerns of Jammu and Kashmir's residents and pursue a resolution to the Kashmir issue.

"The people of Jammu and Kashmir desire to live contentedly within the country. They seek to live with honor and dignity. They oppose coercion through harsh legislation such as UAPA, PSA, or through agencies like NIA and others," she concluded.