PDP will take the lead if NC's 50 MLAs can’t speak on statehood: Mehbooba Mufti

Srinagar, Dec 14: Former chief minister J&K Mehbooba Mufti on Saturday said that PDP has been founded to become the voice of voiceless, and reiterated that the party will not shy away from raising critical issues like restoration of statehood, special status and release of political prisoners.

She alleged that National Conference (NC) has maintained grave silence over pressing issues despite having 50 MLAs.

“Jammu and Kashmir is going through a tumultuous phase, so is PDP. Our party is founded for the aim to fight challenges. If you remember in 1999 when one party had 60 plus MLAs with one minister in BJP government at the centre, it was PDP only who fought energetically against injustices and government sponsored gunmen (Ikhwan). There was no district in Kashmir region where PDP didn’t raise voice against their oppression. Even my party workers told me to keep lull; if not, they (Ikhwani’s) will plant an IED and blow you somewhere. But our intention was based on sincerity.  Today the time has put same responsibility on our shoulders and we have to talk for statehood, special status and release of prisoners, as ruling government has kept silence on these issues,” Mehbooba Mufti said while addressing general council meeting of party in Srinagar.

Mufti reiterated that the PDP remains steadfast in its commitment to addressing these issues through democratic and constitutional methods.

She also highlighted the importance of advocating for the release of political prisoners, many of whom she said have been detained since the abrogation of Jammu and Kashmir’s special status in August 2019. “These individuals are not just political detainees; they are the voice of the people, silenced for standing up for their rights. Their release is essential for fostering trust and creating an atmosphere of peace,” she added.

In addition to advocating for the restoration of Jammu and Kashmir’s constitutional rights, the PDP chief criticized the lack of political will among other parties to address the region’s unique challenges.

She stated that the PDP will continue to fight for the restoration of Article 370, which guaranteed special status to Jammu and Kashmir, and for the reinstatement of full statehood to the region.

Mufti’s address also touched upon the broader issues faced by the people, including unemployment, environmental degradation, and the drug crisis. She called for a comprehensive approach to governance that prioritizes the needs and rights of the people over political expediency.

Concluding her speech, Mehbooba Mufti reiterated the PDP’s commitment to being the voice of the people of Jammu and Kashmir. "While others may hesitate, we will not stop fighting for the dignity, rights, and aspirations of the people. The PDP has always been and will always remain the torchbearer for justice and peace in Jammu and Kashmir," she said.