PDP president Mehbooba Mufti expressed strong discontent with the Centre’s approach, asserting that while negotiations with militants were underway in the northeast, civilians in Jammu Kashmir were unfairly treated as militants.
Speaking at an event in Anantnag, Mufti underlined the importance of respectful dialogue, vowing not to surrender in the face of perceived injustice. She drew attention to incidents like the one in Bafliaz, warning that using force would not yield positive results.
The PDP leader criticized the widespread arrests and raids in Jammu and Kashmir, questioning the government’s use of agencies like the Enforcement Directorate, NIA, and SIA.
She pointed out the stark contrast in the approach towards civilians in the northeast, where talks with militants were being held. Mufti raised concerns about the overflowing jails due to indiscriminate arrests and questioned the treatment of one’s own people.
The occasion of Mufti’s address held particular significance as it took place at the mausoleum of her father and PDP founder, Mufti Mohammad Sayeed, on the eighth anniversary of his death.
Speaking about her father’s legacy, Mufti emphasized his message of unity, transcending urban-rural, Pahari-Gujjar, and Hindu-Muslim divides. She concluded with a prayer for Allah’s mercy and a life of dignity for all.
A noteworthy development during the event was the return of Muzaffar Hussain Baig, a co-founder of the PDP, and his wife Safina Baig to the party after almost four years.
Baig, who was once a deputy chief minister, highlighted Mufti Mohammad Sayeed’s role as the first Muslim home minister of India and his pioneering healing touch policy during the turbulent times of militancy in Jammu and Kashmir.
This return of Baig to the PDP gained significance, especially considering the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. While his wife had joined Sajad Lone’s People’s Conference in 2020, Baig had not officially announced his status.
The function was marked by special prayers at Mufti Mohammad Sayeed’s mausoleum, underscoring the historical and political importance of the event.
Baig lauded Sayeed’s commitment to harmony and unity, echoing the sentiments of the PDP founder’s vision for a united and harmonious society.