Mehbooba Mufti Calls for Justice and Economic Revival in IIOJK

Can silence ever signify peace? Mehbooba Mufti believes not, as she urges the nation to address the simmering discontent in IIOJK.

Mehbooba Mufti, the president of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has voiced strong opposition to what she describes as the prevailing “graveyard silence” in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK). During a gathering marking the ninth anniversary of her father Mufti Muhammad Sayeed’s passing, Mufti asserted that this enforced calm should not be misinterpreted as genuine peace.

At the event, Mufti emphasized the importance of reopening vital trade routes, including the Srinagar-Muzaffarabad Road, Poonch-Rawalakot Road, and Jammu-Sialkot Road. According to her, reviving these historic links could invigorate economic activities, foster regional integration, and alleviate the economic challenges faced by the people of IIOJK. She stressed that economic prosperity and connectivity are crucial in restoring normalcy and fostering goodwill.

Highlighting the ongoing socio-political challenges, Mufti called for the restoration of the region’s unique identity and dignity. In her speech, she underlined the need to address the deep emotional and psychological wounds inflicted on the people over the years. Mufti reiterated that the absence of visible conflict does not equate to true peace, underscoring the silent suffering experienced by the region’s inhabitants.

Mufti was also critical of the government’s policies regarding land acquisition, satellite townships, and reservation, emphasizing the absence of meaningful dialogue with local communities. She highlighted how these measures are often implemented without taking public opinion into account, exacerbating the feeling of alienation among residents. Additionally, Mufti expressed concern over the termination of government employees and the resulting economic hardship for families. She noted that businesses in Jammu are facing significant losses, a situation worsened by a lack of governmental intervention and support.

Expressing disappointment over what she termed as divisive and exclusionary policies, Mufti accused the government of fostering discord among the youth instead of creating avenues for growth and cooperation. She lamented that this approach stands in stark contrast to her late father’s vision, which championed dialogue and reconciliation as essential pillars for achieving lasting peace.

Mufti reassured the people of IIOJK that the PDP remains unwavering in its mission to uphold their rights and aspirations. Committed to her father’s legacy of unity and inclusivity, she pledged to continue advocating for policies that heal divides and build a collective future grounded in justice, dignity, and economic progress.