Condemn Delhi blast, must be probed fairly: Mehbooba Mufti

Srinagar, Nov 12: People’s Democratic Party (PDP) President and former Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti has said that “it would be fatal and deeply unfortunate for the people of Kashmir if investigations into the Red Fort blast prove the involvement of Kashmiri doctors.” She was addressing a gathering of party workers at the PDP headquarters here.

“There are no words to condemn the Red Fort blast. If the reports about the involvement of Kashmiri doctors turn out to be true, it will be stunning and devastating for our people. Doctors are the cream of our society, and such incidents will only damage the collective image of Kashmiris,” Mehbooba said.

She, however, urged the authorities to ensure a free, fair, and transparent investigation, adding that those responsible should be punished, but innocent family members must not be targeted. “Crime has not yet been proven, yet families of the accused are being harassed. This is unacceptable,” Mehbooba Mufti said.

“The blast occurred in Delhi, but raids are being conducted in Kashmir,” Mehbooba said, requesting the Delhi government to expedite the probe and avoid turning it into a campaign of persecution, said a party press release.

Reiterating her party’s long-held stance, the PDP chief said, “The PDP has always stood for the peaceful resolution of the Kashmir issue. This demand was there when we formed governments with Congress and the BJP, and it continues to guide our politics today.”