Mehbooba Mufti Calls for Dialogue with Pakistan Amid Allegations of Secret Talks
No solution without dialogue: PDP chief Mehbooba Mufti alleges "talks with Pakistan have been going on secretly"
The Economic TimesImage: The Economic Times
Mehbooba Mufti, chief of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), emphasized the need for dialogue with Pakistan to achieve lasting peace in Jammu and Kashmir. She alleged that secret discussions are already taking place despite the government's public stance and highlighted the region's pressing social issues, including unemployment and mental health crises.
- 01Mufti insists that peace in Jammu and Kashmir requires revisiting her father's political blueprint.
- 02She claims secret talks between Indian officials and Pakistan are ongoing despite the government's tough public stance.
- 03Mufti highlights the dire social conditions in the region, including high unemployment and mental health issues.
- 04She criticizes the ruling party for dismantling cultural institutions in Jammu and Kashmir.
- 05Mufti believes that cross-border engagement is essential for stability in the region.
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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.
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Mufti's statements highlight the urgent need for dialogue and social support in Jammu and Kashmir, which could influence local policies and community initiatives.
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