Centre turned J-K into a prison, distributed its assets to outsiders: Mehbooba Mufti
Mehbooba Mufti criticized the BJP-led Centre for allegedly undermining the rights of locals in Jammu and Kashmir by granting power projects, land, and other resources to outsiders. She accused the Centre of turning the region into a “prison,” suppressing freedom of speech and development. Mufti dismissed promises of statehood restoration as empty rhetoric, asserting that the BJP had stripped the region of its identity and failed to bring about development.
During a roadshow in Rajouri, Mufti highlighted grievances, claiming that neither the people of Jammu, Ladakh, nor Kashmir were content under BJP rule. She argued that the revocation of Article 370 had done more harm than good, with development claims being refuted by persistent unemployment and recruitment scandals.
As she campaigned for the Anantnag-Rajouri Lok Sabha seat against the National Conference’s candidate, Mian Altaf Ahmed, Mufti called for support from voters. She emphasized the need for a railway line and tunnel on the Mughal road to enhance connectivity within Jammu and Kashmir, pledging to pursue these projects if elected.
Mufti emphasized the peaceful coexistence of different faiths in Jammu and Kashmir and attributed this diversity as the region’s unique strength. She disavowed seeking votes based on alliances or party affiliations, instead framing her candidacy as a response to the demotion of Jammu and Kashmir to a Union Territory and the erosion of its identity.
Accusing the BJP of intimidation tactics and manipulating the electoral process, Mufti urged voters to reject such tactics and ensure accountability. She sought to differentiate herself from accusations of dynasticism, crediting her father, Mufti Mohammad Sayeed, for his contributions to peace-building and development initiatives during his tenure as Chief Minister.
