Says NC President's Statement Risks Fuelling Divisive Narratives, stereotype and stigmatise Kashmiris

Srinagar, May 3: Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) President and former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti on Saturday sharply criticised National Conference (NC) patron Dr. Farooq Abdullah for his recent remarks suggesting local Kashmiri involvement in the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack that claimed the lives of 26 civilians.

In a post on her official X handle (formerly Twitter), Mehbooba expressed strong disapproval, calling Abdullah’s statement “deeply disturbing and regrettable.” Pahalgam attack aftermath

“Farooq sahab’s statement implicating Kashmiris in the Pahalgam terror attack is deeply disturbing & regrettable. As a senior leader, that too as a Kashmiri, his statement risks fuelling divisive narratives, providing ammunition to certain media channels to further stereotype & stigmatise Kashmiris & Muslims,” Mehbooba wrote.

She warned that such statements could have dire consequences, especially at a time when Kashmiri students and traders across India are facing increasing threats and physical attacks. Pahalgam attack aftermath

“This isn’t only misleading but fatal at a time when students & traders from J&K are already facing heightened vulnerability & attacks,” she added.

Mehbooba further invoked the example of Himanshi Narwal, the widow of a security officer martyred in the attack, who publicly appealed for communal harmony and urged citizens not to blame or target Kashmiris or Muslims in the aftermath. Pahalgam attack aftermath

“We should draw inspiration from Himanshi Narwal who despite the martyrdom of her husband urged Indians not to blame and target Kashmiris or Muslims,” Mehbooba said. Pahalgam attack aftermath