People living in fear, uncertainty in IIOJK while AJK residents sleep fearlessly: Mehbooba Mufti
Srinagar: Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) president Mehbooba Mufti, while advocating dialogue with both Pakistan and the local population, said that Kashmiris in Indian Illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir are living in fear, whereas people across the LoC in AJK live without fear.
According to Kashmir Media Service, addressing a gathering in Srinagar, Mehbooba Mufti highlighted local concerns and said that people in IIOJK continue to live in fear and uncertainty.
She stated that the region lives under constant fear due to strict surveillance and the implementation of draconian laws such as the Public Safety Act (PSA), Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), and Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA).
She compared the situation with areas across the LoC in Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), saying that people there are free from such stringent laws and the heavy military presence seen in civilian areas. She said AJK residents live and sleep fearlessly as they are not subjected to draconian laws and an atmosphere of fear, adding that this is why people in AJK are living happier lives.
She further said that after the “illegal and military-backed abrogation” of Articles 370 and 35A, Kashmiris have been living under fear and terror.
She urged Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to release Kashmiri prisoners, initiate dialogue, and help end the prevailing atmosphere of fear in the territory.
In a direct appeal to Narendra Modi, Mehbooba Mufti said that if he genuinely wanted to create a historic legacy, he should initiate a meaningful dialogue process with Pakistan.
