Excelsior Correspondent
SRINAGAR, Jan 7 : Former Chief Minister and People’s Democratic Party (PDP) President, Mehbooba Mufti, today criticized the National Conference (NC) Government for its failure to address rising unemployment, unjust employee terminations and divisive policies.
Speaking at an event in Dara Shikoh Park in Bijbehara area of South Kashmir’s Anantnag district, to mark the 9th death anniversary of her father and PDP founder Mufti Mohammad Sayeed, Mufti urged her party workers to honour his legacy.
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She contrasted her father’s governance with the current administration, saying, “Mufti Sayeed transformed the region despite limited seats. Today, despite a clear majority, the Government remains silent on critical issues, from unjust employee terminations to rising unemployment and a traumatic verification process.”
Taking a dig at the current leadership, she urged the administration to stop dividing the youth and people of Jammu and Kashmir along quota lines. She also advocated for safeguarding open merit while ensuring the rights of marginalized and underrepresented communities across the region.
Mufti remembered her father as a statesman who championed “peace with dignity” and served the people of Jammu and Kashmir with dedication. Reflecting on his inclusive approach, she pointed out that past Governments, including her own, had ensured the adequate representation of JK’s state subjects. “Unfortunately, today, policies are dividing and alienating our youth instead of fostering unity and creating opportunities,” she added.
She also praised her father’s tenure from 2002 to 2005, calling it pivotal for the region. “Despite holding just 16 seats, his governance focused on security, development, and bridging the gap between Delhi and Kashmir,” Mufti said. She highlighted key initiatives such as the opening of the Srinagar-Muzaffarabad road, promoting cross-border trade, and reuniting families as examples of his leadership.
Mufti said his father’s vision of dialogue and inclusivity remains a guiding principle for the region. “His vision of ‘peace with dignity’ and his belief in dialogue as the key to lasting peace will continue to inspire our efforts for a just and united Jammu and Kashmir,” she said.
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