On the fifth anniversary of Jammu Kashmir’s Union Territory (UT) status, People’s Democratic Party (PDP) leader Mehbooba Mufti labeled the day a “black day” for the people of the region.
Speaking from Pulwama, Mufti asserted that her party and others in the valley would continue to view this day in somber reflection until the restoration of J-K’s special status.
“Jammu and Kashmir’s experience is unique; no other region has undergone such a transformation. This day will remain a black mark for us until our special privileges are reinstated,” Mehbooba Mufti told reporters.
She also emphasized the PDP’s enduring commitment to achieving a peaceful resolution to the Kashmir issue that respects the dignity of its people.
Joining in this denunciation, Jammu and Kashmir Pradesh Congress Committee (JKPCC) President Tariq Hameed Karra echoed the sentiment, stating that expecting the people of J&K to celebrate the day was unreasonable.
“For the people of Jammu Kashmir, today symbolizes a loss. If the administration believes that people will celebrate, it’s asking too much,” Karra remarked. He further clarified that the Congress would not participate in any event that he deemed a “mockery” of the constitutional principles that previously guided J&K’s relationship with the Union.
While Lieutenant Governor’s administration marked the foundation day with official celebrations, several mainstream political entities in the region refrained from attending.
The National Conference, People’s Conference leader Sajad Gani Lone, and CPI(M) leader Mohammad Yousuf Tarigami all chose to abstain, signaling a broader opposition to the festivities.
They argued that the administration’s event disregarded the voice of the people, who, in their opinion, had expressed disapproval of the current political status through various means.