Political Parties in Jammu and Kashmir Welcome Ceasefire, Urge Long-Term Peace
Political parties across the spectrum in Jammu and Kashmir have broadly welcomed the recent ceasefire agreement between India and Pakistan, calling it a much-needed move to restore peace in the region. The announcement of a “full and immediate ceasefire”—effective from 5 p.m. on May 10—comes after several days of intense cross-border violence that had severely impacted residents living near the Line of Control (LoC) and International Border (IB).
The ceasefire, reportedly mediated through diplomatic efforts involving the U.S. and U.K., followed direct communication between the Directors General of Military Operations (DGMOs) of both countries. While global powers expressed satisfaction at the outcome, Indian officials underlined that the final understanding was a result of bilateral efforts.
Farooq Abdullah (National Conference):
Veteran leader and National Conference (NC) president Farooq Abdullah welcomed the development, saying the ceasefire would provide “much-needed relief” to civilians who have borne the brunt of escalating tensions.
“Peace on the borders is essential for the dignity and well-being of our people. We hope this ceasefire holds and sets the stage for more meaningful dialogue,” Abdullah said.
Mehbooba Mufti (Peoples Democratic Party):
Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chief Mehbooba Mufti described the announcement as “good news” for the people of J&K, who have long lived under the shadow of conflict.
“The ceasefire is a positive step. India must take a leadership role in promoting long-term regional peace,” she stated, while also calling for demilitarization of civilian areas and resumption of diplomatic engagement.
Omar Abdullah (Chief Minister, J&K):
Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah said he welcomed the ceasefire “from the depths of my heart,” adding that earlier action could have prevented loss of life and property. He ordered all District Commissioners to assess damages and provide immediate relief to affected families.
“Better late than never. My appeal to both governments is to ensure this ceasefire lasts—not for days, but for decades.”
Sajad Lone (Peoples Conference):
Sajad Lone, president of the Peoples Conference, also lauded the ceasefire. He said it would bring an end to the “harrowing ordeal” of civilians in border areas like Uri, Poonch, and Rajouri.
“Now is the time to help affected communities rebuild. They’ve suffered silently for too long.”
M.Y. Tarigami (CPI-M):
M.Y. Tarigami, senior leader of the Communist Party of India (Marxist), said the ceasefire was a “big relief” and stressed the importance of continuing political and diplomatic dialogue to prevent future escalations.
“Peace must not be treated as a short-term pause but as a national policy goal.”
Indian National Congress:
The Congress Party also welcomed the ceasefire but issued a statement urging the government to hold an all-party meeting and a special session of Parliament to discuss both the Pahalgam terror attack and the subsequent Operation Sindoor by Indian forces.
“The nation deserves clarity. Parliament must be taken into confidence,” the party said.
Public Relief and Return to Normalcy
The ceasefire agreement has brought visible relief to border communities in Jammu, Poonch, Rajouri, and Baramulla, who were reeling under frequent shelling, drone intrusions, and power blackouts. With markets reopening and flights resuming, a sense of normalcy is gradually returning.
In a symbolic sign of calm, preparations for the Hajj pilgrimage—which had been disrupted by the hostilities—have resumed, offering spiritual reassurance to many families.
Cautious Optimism Ahead
While the ceasefire has been met with general optimism, political voices across J&K agree that peace must go beyond military silence. Many leaders stressed the need for structured political engagement, economic recovery, and rehabilitation efforts for those displaced or injured in recent days.
As the dust settles, the people of Jammu and Kashmir, weary of conflict, look to their leaders—and both national governments—for a lasting solution.
