SRINAGAR, Jul 26: The National Conference (NC) on Sunday demanded an apology from PDP president Mehbooba Mufti over her remarks at Jantar Mantar, alleging that she justified the use of force against protesters in Kashmir while opposing police action against demonstrators in New Delhi.
The controversy erupted after Mehbooba, during a protest in the national capital earlier this week, reportedly said the situation in Kashmir was different as security forces were combating militancy, while objecting to police action against student protesters in Delhi.
Reacting strongly, the NC accused the former chief minister of defending the use of force against Kashmiri protesters. In a post on X, the party criticised the remarks, alleging they amounted to justifying action against people protesting for their rights.
NC spokesperson Imran Nabi Dar alleged that Mehbooba had equated Kashmiri protesters with militants and termed the remarks deeply disturbing.
Party leader and Zadibal MLA Tanvir Sadiq also sought an apology, questioning whether those protesting over issues such as reservation or civic amenities should be labelled as militants. He said the former chief minister owed an explanation to the people of Jammu and Kashmir.
Apni Party president Altaf Bukhari also criticised Mehbooba’s comments, recalling her controversial “milk and toffee” remark during the 2016 unrest and accusing her government of defending the use of pellet guns against protesters. He said the memories of those who suffered injuries during the unrest remain fresh.
The PDP did not issue an official response, though party leaders reportedly maintained that Mehbooba’s remarks had been taken out of context.
