Mehbooba Mufti Questions Omar Abdullah’s Silence on Security Issues Despite Political Strength

Srinagar, February 11 (KNS): Former Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti has questioned why National Conference leader Omar Abdullah is not using his political strength to raise concerns over security issues in Jammu and Kashmir.

Addressing the media, Mufti pointed out that while her party, the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), lacks sufficient representation in the Assembly, the National Conference holds 50 MLAs and Members of Parliament. Despite this political strength, she accused Abdullah of not asking tough questions to the Home Minister regarding alleged human rights violations and security excesses in the region.

Mufti highlighted two recent incidents—one in Sopore, where a truck driver was allegedly killed by the Army, and another in Kathua, where a youth allegedly died by suicide due to police harassment. She condemned these incidents, demanding accountability and justice for the victims and their families.

She further criticized the administration for restricting her and her party members from visiting affected areas. Mufti alleged that even the personal security officers (PSOs) assigned to her daughter, Iltija Mufti, were suspended without justification, terming it as an attempt to silence opposition voices.

Calling out what she described as “selective action” by the government, Mufti insisted that security concerns should not be used as a tool to suppress political opposition. She reiterated her party’s stance that they are an opposition party, not militants, and emphasized their duty to stand with the people during times of injustice.

"Restoring statehood is meaningless unless the fundamental right to life is protected," she asserted, urging authorities to ensure justice and transparency in governance.