Protesting in Srinagar, Mehbooba Mufti calls for justice for Kashmiri prisoners
Mehbooba Mufti, the former Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir and PDP chief, staged a protest in Srinagar on Monday. The demonstration, which took place at Sher-i-Kashmir Park near the PDP office, was aimed at demanding the release or transfer of Kashmiri prisoners detained under stringent laws like UAPA and PSA.
Mufti accused the authorities of trying to suppress democratic dissent and condemned the police for placing barricades and using force against a peaceful protest. She described the detention of Kashmiri detainees as "prolonged and inhumane," with many being undertrial or suffering from chronic illnesses.
Mufti specifically called for the release or transfer of several high-profile Kashmiri prisoners, including Shabir Shah and Jamaat-e-Islami leaders. She further suggested that Omar Abdullah, a prominent political figure in Kashmir, should meet the Union Home Minister or visit jails to assess the detainees' conditions.
If Omar Abdullah cannot secure the release of Kashmiri detainees, Mufti urged him to ensure they are brought back to Jammu and Kashmir. She emphasized that many of the detainees are undertrials or suffer from chronic illnesses and should be either released or transferred to jails in Jammu and Kashmir.
Mufti's latest protest signals the PDP's ongoing attempt to bring the issue of civil liberties and human rights in Kashmir back into political and public discourse. Her demands align with her broader political position, advocating for dialogue, the revocation of harsh laws such as UAPA and PSA, and the restoration of Jammu and Kashmir’s special status.
During the protest, Mufti and her party workers raised slogans such as "Bail, not Jail." The demonstration ended peacefully, although there was a brief scuffle between PDP activists and law enforcement officers when police intervened.
Mufti's protest comes at a time when Kashmir is experiencing a resurgence of political activity. As the region navigates its complex political landscape, leaders like Mufti continue to advocate for the rights of Kashmiris and push for a more inclusive and just society.
