Mehbooba targets NC govt over rising unemployment, staff termination

Former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister and president of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Mehbooba Mufti, on Tuesday criticised the current National Conference (NC)-led government, stating that despite having a clear majority, the government remains “silent” on critical issues, including unjust employee terminations, rising unemployment, and the traumatic verification process.

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Mufti made the remarks while paying tribute to her late father, Mufti Mohammad Sayeed, the founder of the PDP, on the ninth anniversary of his death. Party members and supporters gathered in his hometown of Bijbehara in South Kashmir, where they paid their respects to the late leader.

In her address, Mufti took aim at the current government, urging it to “stop dividing the young generation and people of Jammu and Kashmir along quota lines.” She emphasised the need to put an end to the ongoing injustice against open merit while ensuring the protection of the rights of marginalised and underrepresented communities across the region.

Mufti also highlighted the significant role her father’s tenure from 2002 to 2005 played in the region. Despite holding only 16 seats, Mufti Mohammad Sayeed’s policies focused on the people, ensuring security, and laying the foundation for a new era in governance, she said.

She further pointed out that past governments, including her own, ensured that “state subjects of J&K were adequately represented and their seats secured.” Mufti lamented the current government’s failure to create opportunities and foster unity, accusing them of implementing policies that divide and alienate the youth.

She also emphasised Mufti Mohammad Sayeed’s approach of dialogue and inclusivity, which she claimed is absent today. “His vision of ‘peace with dignity’ and his belief that dialogue is key to lasting peace will continue to guide our efforts for a just Jammu and Kashmir,” she remarked.

CM pays tribute

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah said Mufti’s death left a gap in the political landscape of J&K that remains unfilled. “Remembering former CM of J&K, late Mufti Mohd Sayeed Sb on his 9th death anniversary. Mufti Sb was one of the most senior political leaders to emerge from Kashmir, having served in various ministries in the Union Government & been elected CM of J&K twice…may Allah grant him highest place in Jannat,” he wrote on X.