Mehbooba slams ‘Graveyard Silence’ in IIOJK, demands reopening of trade routes
Srinagar: Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) president Mehbooba Mufti has criticized the ongoing “graveyard silence” in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK), stressing that this silence should not be mistaken for peace.
According to Kashmir Media Service, addressing a gathering on the ninth death anniversary of her father, Mufti Muhammad Sayeed, Mehbooba called for reopening critical trade routes like the Srinagar-Muzaffarabad Road, Poonch-Rawalakot Road, and Jammu-Sialkot Road to foster economic growth and enhance connectivity.
She emphasized the need to restore the territory’s lost identity and dignity, urging for actions that would heal the people’s wounds, rather than allowing the silence to persist.
“The graveyard silence in the territory cannot be equated with peace,” she said, highlighting the suffering of the people of IIOJK and stressing the urgent need for attention to their plight.
The PDP leader criticized the government’s policies, particularly on issues like reservation, satellite townships, and land acquisition for rail projects, pointing out the lack of consultation with local communities. She also condemned the termination of government employees and voiced concern over the economic difficulties faced by people in Jammu, who are experiencing severe business losses without government intervention.
Mehbooba expressed disappointment over the government’s divisive policies, stating, “Instead of creating opportunities, the government is dividing and alienating our youth,” contrasting this with her father’s vision of peace through dialogue.
She assured the people of IIOJK that the PDP would continue to fight for their rights and remain committed to her father’s legacy of inclusivity and unity.
