BUDGAM: Peoples Democratic Party president Mehbooba Mufti on Tuesday stressed the need for sustained dialogue and deeper public engagement, while voicing concern over growing distress among youth and a range of issues confronting Budgam.
Speaking during a “Kath Ba’ath” interaction programme in Budgam, she thanked participants, including youth and elders, for candidly sharing their concerns. She said the gathering reflected growing public awareness and active participation in community issues.
Reiterating that dialogue remains the only viable way forward, Mufti invoked the political approach of her father, former chief minister Mufti Mohammad Sayeed, saying that engagement and communication are essential to address grievances, provide a sense of closure and work towards lasting peace.
Interacting with reporters after the programme, Mufti said the initiative was not politically motivated but aimed at listening to people, particularly the youth, whom she described as feeling “under pressure”, “disillusioned” and “constrained” in the prevailing atmosphere.
“It was important to hear young voices. If PDP can contribute in any way to easing their challenges, it would be a step in the right direction,” she said.
According to Mufti, the discussions brought forward a wide range of concerns, including local developmental issues, social challenges and broader questions raised by participants, including views on international developments.
She also expressed concern over incidents linked to cow vigilantism and appealed for restraint. Without naming any specific incident, she urged the Bharatiya Janata Party to avoid actions that could disturb peace and communal harmony in the region.
“This is Jammu and Kashmir, and its sensitivities must be respected,” she said.
Commenting on foreign policy, Mufti questioned India’s claim of being a neutral mediator in global conflicts, suggesting that the country’s ties with Israel may influence how its role is perceived internationally.