Kathua, Jammu and Kashmir – Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) president Mehbooba Mufti has called for an immediate end to the West Asia conflict, expressing prayers for Iran’s victory and highlighting the war’s detrimental effects on regional stability and India’s economy, particularly concerning inflation.
Information was available with The Chenab Times that Mufti made these remarks on Sunday while addressing reporters on the sidelines of a PDP rally in Hiranagar, Kathua district. She asserted that the conflict’s continuation posed a significant threat to global stability and was directly contributing to escalating inflation. Mufti also voiced criticism against the current National Conference government in Jammu and Kashmir and the central BJP-led government, stating both have demonstrably failed to address the populace’s pressing issues.
Mufti elaborated on the historical and cultural ties between India and Iran, noting that Jammu and Kashmir was historically referred to as ‘Iran-e-Sagheer’ or ‘Little Iran,’ signifying deep-rooted connections. She mentioned that Islam’s arrival in the region was closely linked to Iran, underscoring the shared heritage and similarities between the people. The PDP chief observed the considerable public support for Iran within Jammu and Kashmir, evidenced by community efforts to collect funds and offer assistance, which she described as a manifestation of a strong collective spirit.
The former Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir stated, “We are praying to Allah for Iran to emerge victorious, and for the war to come to an end.” She pointed out that the war’s negative repercussions extended beyond the immediate conflict zone, affecting India significantly and contributing to global price increases. Mufti also raised concerns about the potential impact on Indian citizens, including those from Jammu and Kashmir, who are employed in Gulf countries. She cautioned that a worsening situation could lead to their return, exacerbating unemployment in India.
The ongoing war in West Asia, which began after a US-Israel offensive against Iran on February 28, followed by retaliatory actions from Tehran across the Gulf, has now entered its fifth week. The prolonged conflict has had a substantial impact on the global economy, affecting oil and gas prices and consequently influencing the daily lives of people across various regions.
The PDP rally in Hiranagar was also organized to welcome Kavel Jarotia, former general secretary of the Congress party’s district unit, along with his supporters, into the PDP fold. This event marked a political manoeuvre to strengthen the party’s local presence.
Furthermore, Mufti addressed the political landscape in Jammu and Kashmir following the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019. She contended that the people of the Union Territory had experienced significant disempowerment since the constitutional change. In this context, she referred to a Private Member’s Bill introduced by the PDP, which advocates for a statutory framework to reorganise administrative divisions, including districts, sub-divisions, and tehsils within the Union Territory. Mufti expressed that the people feel a lack of autonomy and stressed the need for improved administrative structures, especially in remote areas like the Chenab Valley, Pir Panjal, and the Bani-Basohli region. She reiterated the party’s demand for the creation of new districts and divisions to provide better governance and relief to the populace.
Commenting on the performance of the National Conference government, Mufti stated that the electorate had harboured high expectations, particularly given the party’s electoral success. Similarly, she noted that expectations were also placed on the BJP, given its position in the central government, with the hope that it would assist in resolving local issues. However, Mufti concluded that both parties had apparently fallen short of delivering on their promises and addressing the people’s concerns effectively.
❤️ Support Independent Journalism
Your contribution keeps our reporting free, fearless, and accessible to everyone.
Or make a one-time donation
Secure via Razorpay • 12 monthly payments • Cancel anytime before next cycle
(We don't allow anyone to copy content. For Copyright or Use of Content related questions, visit here.)
The Chenab Times News Desk
