Mehbooba Mufti calls for revival of PDP’s mission for J-K’s self-rule

SRINAGAR — PDP President Mehbooba Mufti addressed the party’s General Council meeting on Saturday. She highlighted the party’s ‘historic’ role in implementing self-rule in Jammu and Kashmir despite lacking a majority.

She described self-rule as “de facto freedom” and urged party members not to be discouraged by the current low number of seats, calling it a test of resilience.

Highlighting the party’s previous efforts, she said, “In 2002, we worked tirelessly to bring progress to J&K. We must adopt the same approach to lift the region from its current struggles.”

She also clarified that the PDP never sought ties with the BJP, asserting that it was the BJP’s general secretary who initiated contact.

During the meeting, PDP reaffirmed its commitment to using democratic and constitutional means to resolve the “Kashmir issue,” including restoring the erstwhile state’s special status.

The party resolved to strengthen its struggle for peace and dignity in Jammu and Kashmir while upholding its core principles.

The resolution raised alarms over the overexploitation of natural resources and its damaging impact on the environment and ecology. It also called for the review and release of political prisoners detained on weak or non-existent charges and demanded their return to Jammu and Kashmir.

The PDP voiced concerns over the growing climate of hatred against Muslims in India and urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to use his influence to curb violence and false narratives while protecting individual rights and freedoms. The party reiterated its belief in India’s diversity, calling for mutual respect and the protection of all citizens.