By : Sheikh Mohammad Isa
Mehbooba Mufti on Thursday strongly criticised the National Conference-led government headed by Omar Abdullah, saying it had failed the people despite receiving strong public support.
Speaking at a party convention in Baramulla, the Peoples Democratic Party president said young people in Jammu and Kashmir are facing an uncertain future because of unemployment.
She said many educated and deserving youths remain without jobs, creating deep worry among families. She also claimed that some young people are turning to drug addiction because of stress and frustration.
Questions Over Power Promises
Mufti accused the government of failing to keep its promise of giving 200 units of free electricity to households.
She said instead of helping local people, power projects were being handed over to outsiders while promises to residents remained incomplete.
Public Stress and Social Concerns
Referring to her outreach campaign called Kath Baat, Mufti said she met people across Kashmir and found widespread stress and anxiety.
She claimed many citizens feel troubled and under pressure in daily life. She also alleged that even religious leaders were being asked to check sermons before delivering them in mosques.
Mufti further said Mohalla Committees were unable to continue rehabilitation and social welfare programmes because of alleged pressure from agencies.
Sikh Community Needs Support
Speaking about the Sikh community of Kashmir, Mufti said they have always stood with the people of Kashmir but have not received enough support packages. She said the community deserves more attention and help.
Defence of PDP-BJP Alliance
Responding to criticism over the PDP’s past alliance with the Bharatiya Janata Party, Mufti said her party never compromised on the rights of the people.
She added that during the PDP government, several confidence-building steps were taken, including reopening the Srinagar–Muzaffarabad Trade Route.
Mufti said the route is now closed due to drug smuggling concerns, which has hurt traders and fruit growers.
Fruit Growers Facing Problems
She also raised concerns for fruit growers, saying trucks carrying produce stay stranded for weeks on the Srinagar-Jammu Highway, while traffic is cleared quickly during pilgrimage movements.
Call for Hope
Ending her speech, Mufti urged people not to lose hope. She said difficult times do not last forever and justice will one day prevail.
