Mehbooba Mufti, the chief of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), reiterated that achieving lasting peace in Jammu and Kashmir hinges on revisiting the political framework established by her late father, Mufti Mohammad Sayeed. She alleged that despite the Indian government's public commitment to a tough stance, secret negotiations with Pakistan are ongoing, involving retired generals and diplomats meeting Pakistani officials in third-party countries. Mufti expressed concern over the deteriorating social conditions in the region, citing high unemployment and mental health issues leading to substance abuse and despair among the youth. She criticized the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) for its alleged agenda to dismantle the cultural and religious fabric of Jammu and Kashmir, particularly pointing out the shutdown of educational institutions like Sirajul Uloom, which had been crucial for the underprivileged. Mufti emphasized that the path to stability lies in cross-border engagement and dialogue, asserting that the current administration will eventually have to return to negotiations.