In Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir, Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) President Mehbooba Mufti has expressed deep concern over the safety of Kashmiri students studying across India in the aftermath of the Pahalgam false flag attack. According to Kashmir Media Service, in a statement in Srinagar, Mehbooba Mufti revealed she has been receiving distress calls from Kashmiri students who are living in fear due to rising tensions and acts of intimidation. Mufti urged the Indian Home Ministry and the Chief Ministers of all Indian states to intervene immediately to ensure the protection of Kashmiri students.

 She also condemned the surge in communal hate being spread on social media by Hindutva activists, calling for strict action against those trying to stoke division. Furthermore, the PDP chief urged the Indian government to rethink its decision to deport Pakistani nationals married to Kashmiris, particularly those who have lived in Kashmir for decades. She argued that these individuals, mostly women, have integrated into society, raised families, and contributed to the region’s fabric.

Deporting them, she said, would be inhumane and cause unnecessary emotional distress. Mehbooba Mufti also responded to National Conference president Farooq Abdullah’s call for tougher action against Pakistan than the Balakot strike, questioning the consistency of NC’s policy. She pointed out the contradictions in Farooq Abdullah’s past statements, at times advocating for talks with Pakistan, and at other times calling for military strikes. She said that this shifting stand on Pakistan is a reflection of political opportunism on the part of the NC chief. 

Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP)