BUDGAM: Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) president and former chief minister Mehbooba Mufti stated on Wednesday that endless efforts have been underway since 2019 to disempower the people of Jammu and Kashmir. This followed the revocation of the special status of the region under Article 370 and 35(A), leading to the former state’s downgrade into two Union Territories Jammu & Kashmir, and Ladakh. Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of a public meeting held in the Chadoora area of central Kashmir’s Budgam district, PDP president Mehbooba Mufti emphasized that the subjugation of the people of Jammu and Kashmir did not cease in 2019. Instead, efforts to disempower them have continued unabated since then. She highlighted that the rights of the people of J&K are being infringed upon, with residents being evacuated from their land and electricity being provided at inflated rates, unlike in other parts of the country where it is offered at cheaper rates. Mufti stated, “This approach is unacceptable to the people of Jammu and Kashmir.” Responding to a query, she asserted, “PDP resides in the hearts of the people of Jammu & Kashmir. They know the contributions this party has made to the welfare and wellbeing of the people.” She cited instances from the tenure of Late Mufti Mohammad Sayeed, such as the dissolution of paramilitary groups like Ikhwan and Special Operations Group (SOG), the repeal of draconian laws like POTA, and the opening of the Muzzafarabad road, as evidence of the party’s efforts. Mehbooba urged people to recognize the gravity of the situation and vote for a party that will fearlessly voice concerns related to the people of Jammu and Kashmir.
