Mehbooba Mufti criticises National Conference over Kashmir disconnect with Centre
The PDP president blamed the NC leadership for the growing gap between Jammu and Kashmir and the central government during a Srinagar convention.
Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) president Mehbooba Mufti on Monday criticised the National Conference (NC) leadership for the increasing distance between Jammu and Kashmir and the Centre. She was speaking at a PDP Foundation Day workers' convention at Sher-e-Kashmir Park in Srinagar, according to Greater Kashmir.
Mufti questioned why Kashmiris face suspicion, alleging that youngsters are being harassed, tribal communities are being evicted, and Kashmiri employees are being dismissed from service. She asked why the country holds such suspicion toward the region.
The PDP leader accused the NC of abandoning the demand for autonomy after the political shift from a prime ministerial to a chief ministerial system. She also blamed the NC leadership for the period of militancy, claiming the party used Ikhwan forces while the public suffered.
Mufti stated that Kashmiris have already chosen to stand with India, responding to remarks made by NC president Farooq Abdullah regarding Pakistan. She recalled that Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah had placed his trust in India and maintained associations with Mahatma Gandhi and former Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru.
The PDP president urged the Government of India to begin a dialogue with the people of Jammu and Kashmir instead of using force. She said the government should recognise public anger rather than using coercive measures to project peace.
Mufti concluded by stating the PDP was established to protect the identity and dignity of Jammu and Kashmir. She warned that those attempting to change the region's identity would face consequences.