Are Hundreds of Kashmiris Still in Jail Since 2019? Mehbooba Mufti Raises Alarm
Synopsis
Mehbooba Mufti, the leader of the PDP, highlights the plight of hundreds of Kashmiris imprisoned since 2019, expressing concerns over rising intolerance and government inaction. As she calls for urgent intervention, the issue of undertrials and their rights under the Constitution comes to the forefront, sparking a debate on political accountability and justice.
Key Takeaways
Mehbooba Mufti emphasizes the plight of imprisoned Kashmiris since 2019.
She calls for the government to ensure the safety of Kashmiris outside Jammu and Kashmir.
The issue of undertrials and their treatment under the law is critical.
Mufti seeks accountability from political leaders regarding this matter.
The PDP is dedicated to fighting for the rights of Kashmiris.
Srinagar, Dec 26 (NationPress) President of the People's Democratic Party (PDP), Mehbooba Mufti, expressed on Friday that since 2019, numerous Kashmiris have been enduring imprisonment.
During a press conference, the former Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir stated, "Since 2019, countless young individuals from our community have been imprisoned. Many families have reached out to me regarding this issue."
She claimed that the nation is grappling with intolerance, with lynching incidents on the rise.
"In just 72 hours, three incidents occurred. The government led by Omar Abdullah should deploy a ministerial team to ensure the safety of Kashmiris living outside," she said, referencing a recent incident in which a Kashmiri shawl seller was allegedly attacked by Bajrang Dal activists in Uttarakhand.
On the topic of job reservations, Mufti remarked that even during her tenure in government, she advocated for opportunities based on open merit.
Regarding Mirwaiz Umar Farooq's claim that he removed the title of 'Hurriyat Chairman' from his profile on X due to government pressure, she stated this should not have transpired, especially with the entire Hurriyat Conference leadership currently imprisoned.
Mufti revealed that she had submitted a letter to the DGP and the chief secretary requesting details about the undertrials held in jails outside Jammu and Kashmir, but received no reply.
"I received no response. I subsequently approached the High Court, but their reaction was negative, asserting that my PIL was politically motivated. The High Court has ruled that undertrials cannot be treated as convicts. Article 21 of the Constitution allows us to discuss such matters. I am uncertain why my PIL was rejected," the PDP chief stated.
"I recall when the PSA was enforced against me, I was labeled as 'daddy's daughter,'" she added.
She noted that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has indicated, "we have 3.5 lakh undertrials in various jails."
"76 percent of inmates are undertrials. Among them, 1206 convicts from Kashmir have been detained under UAPA," she asserted.
"The National Conference possesses two MPs in Parliament, yet they have not addressed this issue. The Rajya Sabha members are inactive. The chief minister remains silent. I had urged the chief minister to assemble a team for analysis, yet he did not respond," she alleged.
She concluded by stating that the PDP is dedicated to pursuing this matter to its logical conclusion. "We will continue our fight for the rights of Kashmiris," she reiterated.
Point of View
It is crucial to acknowledge the voices advocating for justice while also considering the broader implications for national unity and security. The path forward must prioritize dialogue and understanding.
NationPress
21 Jun 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What did Mehbooba Mufti say about Kashmiris in jail?
Mehbooba Mufti stated that since 2019, hundreds of Kashmiris have been imprisoned and many families have reached out to her for help.
What incidents did Mufti refer to in her statements?
She mentioned several incidents of violence, including a recent case where a Kashmiri shawl seller was reportedly beaten by Bajrang Dal activists.
What is the significance of undertrials in this context?
Mufti highlighted that a significant percentage of prisoners are undertrials, emphasizing the need for transparency and justice in the legal system.
How has the government responded to her inquiries?
She claimed to have received no response from the DGP or the chief secretary regarding her inquiries about undertrials.
What is the PDP's stance on this issue?
The PDP is committed to advocating for the rights of Kashmiris and pursuing this issue to its logical conclusion.
