PDP President Mehbooba Mufti on Sunday called for the release of detainees ahead of Eid as a major confidence-building measure, saying such a step would help restore trust and bring relief to the people of Jammu and Kashmir. Advocating opening up of traditional routes, greater regional engagement, trade, and travel as part of what she described as a long-term roadmap for peace in Kashmir, Mehbooba termed it as ‘first real confidence building measure’.
Addressing a gathering at Sher-e-Kashmir Park, Mehbooba said the voice of Kashmiris must be heard and reiterated that the resolution of the Kashmir issue lies through dialogue and within the framework of the Constitution. She stressed that peace and engagement remain the only way forward for lasting stability in the region. “We believe in engagement and talks. We seek peace with dignity,” she said.
The PDP chief urged both India and Pakistan to respond positively towards peace initiatives. Referring to previous outreach efforts between the two countries, she said dialogue must continue in the interest of the people of South Asia and Kashmir. “The youth deserve dignity and hope. Hate must end,” she said, while adding that messages of peace often spoken about by RSS leaders should also translate into action on the ground.
Mehbooba Mufti also appealed for the restoration of traditional routes and cross-border connections, saying reopening these links would help revive economic activities, improve public relations, and strengthen regional confidence-building efforts. She further demanded that at least two power projects be handed back to Jammu and Kashmir, stating that local resources should directly benefit the people of the Union Territory.
Raising concern over the continued detention of youth under stringent laws, she demanded that cases registered under the UAPA be reviewed with compassion and justice. She said the atmosphere of fear and silence in Kashmir must end and the younger generation deserves dignity, opportunity, and hope for the future.
The former Chief Minister said development alone cannot address the emotional and political aspirations of the people, adding that meaningful dialogue and reconciliation are essential for lasting peace. She maintained that releasing prisoners before Eid would send a powerful message of healing and reconciliation across Kashmir.
Mufti also said Pakistan must respond positively to India’s outreach efforts. Referring to previous attempts by the Prime Minister to improve ties with Pakistan, she said initiatives for dialogue had been undertaken in the past but “the response from the other side was not appropriate.”
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