Baramulla, April 23: Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) President Mehbooba Mufti on Thursday levelled accusations against the National Conference-led government, alleging a betrayal of public mandate despite substantial electoral backing. Addressing a party convention in Baramulla, north Kashmir, Mufti highlighted concerns over the future of Jammu and Kashmir’s youth, citing rising unemployment as a critical issue.
Youth Unemployment and Social Concerns
Information was available with The Chenab Times that Mufti stated, “Despite being meritorious, our young people are jobless. Their parents are deeply worried, and as a result, many youths are falling into drug addiction.” She further alleged that the government had failed to fulfil key promises, including the provision of 200 units of free electricity, asserting that power projects were instead being transferred to external entities while local commitments remained unmet.
The PDP president also spoke about the pervasive stress and anxiety among the populace, which she observed during her outreach programme, “Kath Baat,” across Kashmir. She claimed that even prayer leaders in mosques were subjected to scrutiny of their sermons. Additionally, Mufti alleged that Mohalla Committees faced hindrances from agencies, impeding their ability to execute rehabilitation and social programmes.
Community Support and Economic Issues
Addressing the specific concerns of the Sikh community, Mufti stated, “The Sikh community has always stood shoulder to shoulder with the people of Kashmir, yet they have not been provided adequate support packages. It is time they are given due attention.”
Responding to past criticism regarding her party’s alliance with the Bharatiya Janata Party, Mufti asserted that the PDP had not compromised on the rights of the people. She maintained that while the party faced targeting for its alignment with the BJP, it steadfastly protected the populace’s interests.
Economic Development and Trade Routes
Mufti accused the current administration of failing to protect land and job rights. She recalled that during the PDP’s tenure, significant confidence-building measures were implemented, including the reopening of the Srinagar-Muzaffarabad trade route. She lamented that this route has since been shut down, citing drug smuggling concerns, which she argued has adversely affected traders and fruit growers.
The plight of fruit growers was further highlighted, with allegations that trucks carrying produce experienced weeks-long delays on the Srinagar-Jammu highway, while traffic related to pilgrimage movements was expedited. Mufti urged the public to maintain hope, suggesting that prolonged oppression is unsustainable and that eventually, justice will prevail, drawing parallels with the inevitable downfall of even powerful regimes.
❤️ 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
