SC’s Pahalgam Remark Reflects Centre’s Doubts Over J&K Stability: Mehbooba Mufti

Srinagar, Aug 14  : Former Chief Minister and Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) president Mehbooba Mufti on Thursday said the Supreme Court’s reference to the recent Pahalgam militant attack, during discussions on restoring Jammu and Kashmir’s statehood, underscores New Delhi’s continuing lack of confidence in the region’s stability.

She said that despite the abrogation of Jammu and Kashmir’s special status in 2019 and its reorganisation into a Union Territory, the Centre remains unwilling to relax its control. According to her, this reflects a “political and psychological deadlock.”

“The Jammu and Kashmir issue is far bigger than just statehood or constitutional status,” Mehbooba said. “Unless the Government of India engages with the political aspirations of the people and addresses the core issue directly, uncertainty will persist, no matter how much force it uses.”

Former Chief Minister urged the Centre to “correct past mistakes” and launch a genuine dialogue and reconciliation process aimed at ensuring lasting peace and dignity for the region.(KNS)