 president Mehbooba Mufti emphasized that Jammu and Kashmir should serve as a bridge of friendship between India and Pakistan){kind=link}
JUNE 01: In a compelling appeal for peace, People’s Democratic Party (PDP) president Mehbooba Mufti emphasized that Jammu and Kashmir should serve as a bridge of friendship between India and Pakistan, rather than a theatre of war. Addressing party workers in Srinagar, Mufti expressed concern over the escalating hostilities in the region, highlighting the human cost of conflict. She criticized the rising tide of war rhetoric, describing it as a dangerous mindset that only adds to the suffering of people on both sides.
Mufti’s call for peace comes amid heightened tensions following a recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam, which tragically claimed the lives of 26 civilians. In retaliation, India launched Operation Sindoor, targeting terror camps situated across the border in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. While acknowledging the importance of national security, Mufti stressed that military responses must not overshadow the need for open communication and diplomatic efforts. She warned that continued escalation risks plunging the region into greater instability and long-term devastation.
Invoking the legacy of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, Mufti called for a revival of diplomatic engagement between the two neighboring countries. She stated that dialogue remains the most effective and humane way to resolve differences and bring about lasting peace. She also extended a message of goodwill to the citizens of Pakistan, emphasizing that political disagreements should not foster hatred or hostility toward an entire population.
Responding to voices demanding stronger military action, Mufti warned against normalizing conflict-based narratives. She argued that such aggressive rhetoric undermines peace initiatives and breeds division. Instead, she reaffirmed her dedication to advocating for the welfare, rights, and dignity of the people of Jammu and Kashmir. Peace, she said, is not just a matter of diplomacy, but essential for economic development, social harmony, and the healing of a region long plagued by unrest.
In conclusion, Mehbooba Mufti’s appeal serves as a reminder of the vital role dialogue can play in conflict resolution. Her vision for Jammu and Kashmir as a conduit for cooperation rather than confrontation underscores the broader need for thoughtful leadership, mutual respect, and a commitment to regional peace.