Mehbooba Mufti Reaches Out to Anantnag Residents Amidst Sense of Suffocation
Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) president Mehbooba Mufti recently extended her support to the residents of her hometown, Anantnag, addressing the prevailing sense of “suffocation” among the people following the revocation of Jammu and Kashmir’s special status in August 2019.
During the conclusion of the party’s Kath Bath programme in Anantnag town, Mufti emphasized the importance of listening to the concerns of the people rather than delivering lengthy speeches.
Since the revocation of the special status, the PDP has been conducting outreach programs in various regions, including Srinagar and Jammu.
Individuals from different sectors, such as traders, civil society members, lawyers, and unemployed youth, raised issues ranging from unemployment and inflation to the lack of sports infrastructure and alleged restrictions on freedom of expression.
Mufti acknowledged the challenges faced by the residents of Anantnag and assured them that their voices would be heard on appropriate platforms to address their grievances.
She expressed concerns about the shrinking space for peaceful protests and criticized the criminalization of dissent, citing instances where leaders were prevented from participating in solidarity protests.
Addressing the issue of reservations, Mufti highlighted the rights of educated youth to voice their concerns and opposed potential free trade agreements that could negatively impact Jammu and Kashmir’s horticulture sector.
She emphasized the need for self-sufficiency in key sectors like power, horticulture, and tourism, while advocating for the protection of local farmers against unfair imports.
Furthermore, Mufti raised concerns about the treatment of Kashmiri youth and Muslims outside the region, calling for an end to discriminatory practices that undermine the country’s secular ethos.
During the programme, various individuals highlighted the importance of representation, prison reforms, and the preservation of dissent in a democratic society.
Concluding her address, Mufti reiterated her party’s commitment to promoting peace with dignity and carrying forward the legacy of her father, Mufti Muhammad Syed, by advocating for the rights and well-being of all Kashmiris.
She emphasized the importance of preventing youth from being marginalized and urged for a society where dissent is respected and individuals can express their opinions freely.
The outreach initiative led by Mehbooba Mufti aims to address the concerns of the people of Anantnag and provide a platform for meaningful dialogue and engagement to foster a vibrant and inclusive community.
