Mehbooba Mufti Voices Concern Over Cultural Identity and Education in Jammu and Kashmir

Mehbooba Mufti on Sunday claimed that a large turnout at a party workers’ convention in north Kashmir reflects public dissatisfaction with the current administration in the Union Territory. Addressing supporters in Ganderbal, she said the response indicated growing discontent with governance and alleged that the present system has failed to meet people’s expectations.

Mufti alleged that there is an “agenda” underway to weaken educational institutions and erase linguistic and cultural identity in Jammu and Kashmir. She specifically claimed that certain institutions, including those that once provided education to economically weaker students and produced professionals such as engineers and doctors, have been shut down. She also raised concerns over what she described as efforts to marginalise the Urdu language, which she said is closely tied to the region’s cultural and religious identity.

The former Chief Minister accused the ruling establishment of failing to protect public interest and said her party has consistently raised issues concerning ordinary citizens. She contrasted the Jammu and Kashmir National Conference-led government with her own party’s stance, alleging that competing political interests have taken precedence over public welfare. Her remarks come amid ongoing political competition in the region following recent electoral and administrative changes.

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The convention, held in Ganderbal—an Assembly constituency represented by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah—was also highlighted by PDP leaders as evidence of grassroots support. Party members said the turnout reflected dissatisfaction among sections of the public and signalled increasing engagement with the party’s organisational efforts. They also indicated that more leaders and workers may join the PDP in the coming days as part of its expansion drive.

Party representatives further stated that the PDP is focusing on strengthening its grassroots structure to address local issues more effectively. They said efforts are being made to reach out to communities across the region and provide support on civic and governance-related concerns. According to party leaders, the objective is to rebuild organisational strength and improve local-level representation.

The PDP also announced the formation of a new committee aimed at reinforcing its political and organisational base. The panel, which includes senior leader and former Member of Parliament Mehboob Beg along with other party figures, is expected to begin work immediately. Its mandate includes strengthening party units, mobilising support, and preparing for future political activities in the Union Territory.

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