During a visit to Rajouri, PDP president Mehbooba Mufti launched a fierce critique of the National Conference (NC), accusing it of promoting the BJP’s agenda in Jammu and Kashmir and remaining silent on key issues like Article 370. She alleged that the NC has abandoned the cause of Kashmiris and is working in tandem with the Centre, adding that her party alone is standing up for the people of J-K and the Muslim community nationwide.
Speaking at a public gathering and addressing party workers, Mehbooba Mufti expressed disappointment with the NC-led government’s approach in the first six months of its term. While she acknowledged that not everything could be achieved so soon, she highlighted the passage of the Waqf Amendment Act as a major letdown. The PDP had expected the assembly, given the Muslim majority in the region, to protest the bill, but no such resolution was passed.
NC’s silence on key issues
Mehbooba Mufti also took aim at the Abdullah family, linking them to former R&AW chief A S Dulat, whose latest book has stirred controversy. She claimed Dulat is trying to bridge the NC and BJP, allegedly revealing a deeper understanding between the two. She questioned Omar Abdullah’s silence on the dismissal of government employees, mass arrests, and the condition of prisoners lodged outside the region.
Criticizing the NC’s performance, she said promises made during the elections—such as providing 12 free LPG cylinders, 200 free electricity units, and one lakh jobs—have not been addressed. She argued that even under the Lieutenant Governor’s rule, basic amenities like roads and electricity were provided more efficiently, suggesting there is little difference between the two administrations.
PAGD fallout and call for unity
Mehbooba Mufti blamed NC for the collapse of the Peoples Alliance for Gupkar Declaration (PAGD), which was formed after the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019. She said her intention was to stand united against oppression, but the alliance failed due to NC’s actions. She also alleged that NC has a history of betraying both the people and the Centre since 1947.
Reaffirming her commitment to secularism and religious freedom, Mehbooba Mufti said the Muslims of J-K chose India for its secular fabric and will not accept any interference in religious affairs. She called on the people to strengthen the PDP, which she said remains the true voice of the region and the larger Muslim community.
