**PDP President Mehbooba Mufti Criticizes National Conference’s Stance on Article 370**
Mehbooba Mufti, the president of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), launched a fierce critique of the National Conference (NC) during her recent visit to Rajouri. She accused the ruling party of shying away from discussions about Article 370 and promoting the Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) agenda in Jammu and Kashmir. Mufti urged the public to support her party, emphasizing its commitment to being the voice of the people of Jammu and Kashmir and advocating for the marginalized Muslim community across the nation.
This visit marked Mufti’s first public engagement in the region following the PDP’s disappointing performance in the previous Lok Sabha and Assembly elections. While she faced defeat in the Rajouri-Anantnag parliamentary constituency, only three PDP candidates managed to secure seats in the assembly elections.
Mufti expressed disappointment with the NC-led government’s performance, particularly regarding the Waqf bill, stating that while they do not expect immediate results, the government has failed to meet significant expectations. She highlighted the hope that the assembly would pass a resolution protesting against the Act, given Jammu and Kashmir’s Muslim majority status. The PDP leader criticized NC president Farooq Abdullah and his son, former Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, for their welcoming stance towards Union Minister Kiren Rijiju, who introduced the bill in Srinagar.
Mufti pointed out that the NC’s election manifesto promised 12 free LPG cylinders, 200 free electricity units, and one lakh jobs, but noted a lack of progress in these areas. She remarked that there is little distinction between the current Lieutenant Governor-led administration and the previous NC government, as both have been providing essential services like roads, water, and electricity.
The PDP leader also raised concerns about the government’s silence on critical issues such as the dismissal of government employees, mass arrests, and the treatment of prisoners from Jammu and Kashmir. She accused the NC of avoiding discussions on Article 370 and claimed that the party is perpetuating a BJP narrative regarding the restoration of statehood.
In light of recent comments from former R&AW chief A.S. Dulat, Mufti suggested that he is attempting to align the Abdullah family with the BJP, asserting that the NC leadership is willing to compromise principles for political gain.
In conclusion, Mehbooba Mufti’s remarks underscore her party’s commitment to advocating for the rights and voices of the people in Jammu and Kashmir, while also holding the National Conference accountable for its actions and promises.
**FAQ**
**Q: What did Mehbooba Mufti criticize about the National Conference?**
A: Mehbooba Mufti criticized the National Conference for avoiding discussions on Article 370 and for promoting the BJP’s agenda in Jammu and Kashmir.